Meaux Cathedral

Meaux Cathedral, also known locally as Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Meaux, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Gothic architecture and the enduring spirit of the town of Meaux in the Seine-et-Marne department of France. This magnificent cathedral, with its soaring towers and intricate stonework, has been a centerpiece of Meaux for centuries, drawing visitors from near and far to marvel at its beauty and historical significance.

The History of Meaux Cathedral

The construction of Meaux Cathedral began in the 12th century and spanned over four centuries, finally concluding in the mid-16th century. This extended period of construction was influenced by various historical events, including the Hundred Years' War and the English occupation of the city. The initial phase of construction saw the creation of the choir between 1175 and 1180, marking the beginning of this Gothic masterpiece.

By the end of the 12th century, significant progress had been made. The widow of the Count of Champagne, Henri the Liberal, was interred in the cathedral in 1198, and by 1200, the ambulatory, three radiating chapels, the double aisles of the choir, and the tribune level above the inner aisles were completed. Between 1215 and 1220, the massive piers of the transept crossing were erected, along with the upper levels of the choir, including the triforium and the high windows. This early phase of construction culminated in the vaulting of the choir, as evidenced by a drawing from around 1220 by Villard de Honnecourt, depicting the original choir with its three radiating chapels.

The cathedral underwent significant changes in the following centuries. In the mid-13th century, the original choir, which had begun to subside due to poor foundations, was reconstructed in the Rayonnant Gothic style by Gautier de Vainfroy. This new design, completed between 1253 and 1278, addressed the structural issues by eliminating the tribune level of the choir while retaining the tribune openings overlooking the central nave.

Further modifications were made in the late 13th century, funded by Jeanne de Navarre, the last heiress of the County of Champagne and future queen of France. The façades of the transept arms were updated to reflect contemporary tastes, with the south arm's façade being redesigned by an unknown architect and the north arm's façade by Pierre de Varinfroy, who drew inspiration from the façade of Notre-Dame de Paris.

The 14th century saw additional expansions, including the construction of two more radiating chapels and the extension of the nave by three bays, authorized by King Philippe VI in 1335. However, the construction was frequently interrupted by military conflicts, including the Hundred Years' War and the occupation of Meaux by English forces from 1422 to 1439.

The cathedral's construction resumed in the late 15th century, with the completion of the first three bays of the nave and the modification of the fourth and fifth bays in the Flamboyant Gothic style. The north tower, standing at 60 meters, was completed between 1505 and 1540, while the south tower, originally intended as a temporary wooden structure for the bells, remains to this day and is known as the Black Tower.

Exploring Meaux Cathedral

Visitors to Meaux Cathedral are immediately struck by its imposing façade, featuring three monumental portals. The central portal, dedicated to the Last Judgment, depicts scenes of the resurrection of the dead, paradise, and hell. The left portal illustrates the life of Saint John the Baptist, while the right portal is devoted to the life of the Virgin Mary. Above the portals, a grand rose window, added in the late 15th century, bathes the interior in colorful light.

As you step inside, the cathedral's luminosity and the intricacy of its sculptural ornamentation are truly breathtaking. The interior is characterized by its five-aisled layout, with a short nave of only five bays and an impressive double ambulatory surrounding the rectangular choir. The choir itself terminates in a semi-circular apse with five large radiating chapels.

One of the most notable features of the interior is the tomb of Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet, the famous 17th-century bishop of Meaux, located in the transept. Bossuet, known for his eloquent sermons and writings, played a significant role in the history of the cathedral and the town.

The cathedral's height is another striking aspect, with the vaults of the aisles reaching impressive heights. The use of light-colored stone from Varreddes, combined with the height and the large windows, creates a sense of openness and airiness that is both awe-inspiring and serene.

The Exterior and Surroundings

The exterior of Meaux Cathedral is a fascinating study in the evolution of Gothic architecture. The varied styles, from the early Gothic of the 12th century to the Flamboyant Gothic of the 15th century, blend harmoniously to create a unified and aesthetically pleasing whole. The extensive restoration work carried out in the 19th century, necessitated by the erosion of the Varreddes stone, has preserved the cathedral's grandeur for future generations.

Adjacent to the cathedral, the Episcopal Palace and its gardens offer a tranquil retreat. The palace, dating back to the 12th century, now houses the Bossuet Museum, which showcases the history of the cathedral and the town of Meaux. The gardens, designed in the French formal style, provide a peaceful setting for reflection and relaxation.

In conclusion, Meaux Cathedral is not just a remarkable example of Gothic architecture; it is a living monument that tells the story of the town and its people over the centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Meaux Cathedral is sure to leave a lasting impression.