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Cathedral of Saint-Étienne

cathedral, Auxerre, France

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The Cathedral of Saint-Étienne in Auxerre, France, is a significant example of Gothic architecture, with construction spanning the 13th to 16th centuries. This cathedral features three intricately carved doorways and a prominent rose window on its west facade, complemented by a large tower on the northwest corner.1

Inside, the early Gothic choir and apsidal chapel showcase some of France's finest 13th-century stained glass. The cathedral's architectural style is part of the broader Gothic movement, characterized by innovations like the ribbed vault, pointed arch, and flying buttress, which allowed for taller structures and larger windows. While Amiens Cathedral is noted as the largest Gothic cathedral in France, Auxerre's Saint-Étienne stands as a notable landmark in its own right.123

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