france - day 3

After being introduced to our driver, Placido, we all piled into our luxurious Mercedes-Benz coach. One of our fellow travelers pronounced it the most comfortable bus he had ever been on...and he was a tall and hefty guy.

Our destination...Chartres...world-known for its magnificent cathedral with its stunning stained glass windows. We first went to the stained glass restoration center and had a most informative introduction to the world of stained glass as it has developed over centuries. I was especially taken with the gorgeous cobalt blue for which Chartres is known.

We could see the twin spires at quite a distance. The taller one dates from the start of the 16th century and is Flamboyant Gothic in style. It contrasts sharply with its very solemn Romanesque counterpart. (Scaffolding covers the West Rose Window, which is undergoing restoration).

We entered through the Royal Portal (1145-55)...

...and had a glorious view of the nave. As wide as the Romanesque crypt below it, the nave reaches a height of 121 feet.

The North Rose Window depicts the Glorification of the Virgin, surrounded by the kings of Judah and the prophets, c.1230:

All the stained glass windows were removed for safekeeping at the beginning of World War II and were then reinstalled in the cathedral. The windows above the choir bring additional light to the nave:

The astronomical clock is surrounded by ornate carvings:

Small chapels, with their own stained glass windows, surround the altar area:

Overall, the windows of the cathedral cover a surface area of over 28,000 square feet. We were told that the French government pays for the upkeep and restoration of the exteriors of the churches, while the Catholic church is responsible for the upkeep of the interiors.

We had lunch at a nice creperie and tried their onion soup, continuing our 40-year hunt to find the BEST French onion soup ...anywhere! (This one did not make it). And then it was back on the bus to drive to chateau country in the Loire Valley.