Architecture

Chartres cathedral draws millions of visitors every year, yet its origins have been largely forgotten. René Querido explores its story, including its foundation in the early eleventh century by Fulbertus as part of the great School of Chartres, and its development under Bernadus Silvestris, John of Salisbury and the last great master, Alanus ab Insulis.

Working through to the twentieth century, Querido never loses sight of the magnificence of the building, nor the great significance of the ideas that developed around it.

Gordon Strachan, author of Jesus the Master Builder (Floris Books), explores the magnificent structure of Chartres Cathedral, and examines the influences on the medieval master builders.

Using Chartres as a starting point, Dr Strachan suggests that the origins of the Gothic style may lie in Islamic architecture. He goes on to consider how the experience of a particular architectural space affects us, and how sacred geometry works.

Beautifully illustrated, this is an inspiring and informative book for anyone interested in religious architecture and spirituality.