Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Built to house the head of St. John the Baptist, construction on Amiens Cathedral began in about 1220. Plans outlined the design of the largest cathedral in France, which would be financed by profits from the wool trade. Offering an excellent example of Gothic architecture, Amiens was later restored by Viollet-le-Duc in the mid-19th century. Today, visitors can explore one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world and enjoy the works of numerous artisans.
Explore the interior. Encompassing nearly 83,000 square feet in area, the interior of the cathedral is enormous. When the height of 368 feet is factored in, the result is a massive cathedral which is considered to be the largest in France. Although large, the interior is simply decorated, in sharp contrast to the exterior. The structure is partially supported by 126 slender pillars that stretch to the ceiling. In the style of other Classical cathedrals of the period, Amiens' interior features a three-aisled nave, a three-aisled transept, a five-aisled choir, an ambulatory and radiating chapels.
See the choir. Dating to the 16th century, the 110 choir stalls were carved from oak, and feature more than 4,000 figures which depict biblical and real-life figures. The stalls offered a folding seat and a platform on which to stand during services, which often lasted for two to three hours. Visitors to the choir can view centuries-old graffiti carved into the stalls by previous occupants. Additionally, the choir screen offers vivid scenes form the lives of St. Firmin and St. John, carved during the 15th and 16th century.
Climb the towers. On the west front, two towers were built rise above the cathedral in unequal heights. This may be due to the time gap between the completions of each tower. The shorter, south tower was completed in 1366, while the north tower wasn't finished until 1402. Visitors to the cathedral can climb the towers for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
See the Cathedral in color. During the summer months, as well as during the Christmas holiday season, the cathedral hosts a nightly laser presentation. Using multi-colored laser lights, the exterior is bathed in color to reflect the original coloration of the cathedral, which was discovered during a recent cleaning. The presentation is accompanied by narration and music, and offers visitors glimpse of how the cathedral must have appeared to early pilgrims.