Bourges - Cathedral

The "Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Bourges" was erected as a replacement for a 11th-century structure. The construction started probably in the last quarter of the 12th century, around the same time when the builders and bricklayers started in Chartres. The choir of the cathedral was in use by 1214, the nave was finished in 1255. The cathedral was consecrated in 1324.

The facade was finished by 1270. It is very wide, as the four side aisles and central nave each have their own portal. The cathedral´s two facade- towers grew up very slowly. The northern tower, finally completed in the 15th century, collapsed in 1506, destroying the northern portion of the facade. The tower and the (left) portal were rebuilt later in a more contemporary, flamboyant style.

Since 1992 the cathedral is a "UNESCO World Heritage Site".

I have already uploaded dozens of photos taken in and around the fantastic cathedral. This is the only one for now.