Tours · Strasbourg · Cathedral
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg
A towering masterpiece of rose sandstone Gothic, crowned by a single soaring spire that pierces the Alsatian sky. Inside, a world-famous astronomical clock sets its carved apostles in motion every day at half past noon.
About this place
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame is the glory of Strasbourg and one of the supreme achievements of Gothic architecture. Built mainly of warm rose coloured sandstone from the Vosges, the present cathedral was begun in 1220 on far older foundations, and its single north spire was completed in 1439. A matching south tower was planned but never built, leaving the asymmetrical silhouette that makes the facade instantly recognisable. Reaching 142 metres, it was the tallest building in the world from 1647 until 1874 and remains the tallest structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. Within, visitors find a vast rose window, centuries old stained glass, and the celebrated astronomical clock whose figures parade each day at half past twelve.
Key facts
- 1439 year — The single north spire was completed, finishing the famous silhouette
- 1647 year — From this year the cathedral reigned as the tallest building in the world
- 142 metres — The height of the lone spire that crowns the west front
📍 Galerie extérieure, 67000, Strasbourg