They say this is one of the greatest achievements in the history of architecture. This exquisitely resolved building has housed the tunic (Sancta Camisia) of the Blessed Virgin Mary since the ninth century period - making it a leading pilgrimage center. It is a triumph of Gothic architecture. The highlights of this church are as follows:

•  The two flying buttresses
•  The mismatched West spires
•  The rose windows and the nine incredibly ornate Portals
•  A magnificent choir screen
•  A 16th-century agriculture clock
•  The labyrinth
•  The beautiful stained glass windows
•  The 105m bell tower, is that tallest still standing Romanesque steeple in the world

You can also climb the 350 steps stairs north tower, for a fee, but the view is totally worth it; access is from behind at the Cathedral  bookshop.

You may also enter the cathedral crypt for a fee but tours are guided only.

• Three euros to enter the crypt.
•  €7.5 to enter the north tower.
• Entry is free.

•  The tower closes at 5:30 PM.
•  Visits to the crypt are by guided tour only; the crypt is closed on Sundays and holidays.
•  The labyrinth is open only on Fridays.

• Get to there on foot.

• Le Parvis
• Creperie La Picoterie
• La Vieille Maison

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Chartres before you plan your trip.

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