Strasbourg Cathedral
Are you tempted to visit France’s second highest cathedral ? Then spend a weekend in Strasbourg and visit the famous Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Strasbourg. You really shouldn’t miss out on the 142 meter high, Gothic building which is a Roman Catholic place of worship. This huge cathedral, Strasbourg's most famous landmark, is an intimidating example of 13th-century Gothic architecture.
History of Strasbourg Cathedral
The Cathedral Notre Dame de Strasbourg, built on the foundations of an Early Romanesque church begun in 1015, has long been famed as one of the noblest achievements of Western architecture, which reflects the whole range of styles from Romanesque to Late Gothic (12th-15th C). The west front (1277-1318) was the work of Master Erwin of Steinbach and his successors; the delicately articulated octagon of the north tower (1399-1419) was built by Ulrich von Ensingen of Ulm, the openwork spire by Johannes Hoeltz of Cologne (1420- 1439). In 1793, 235 statues and countless ornaments fell victim to the fanaticism of the French Revolution. There was even a proposal to demolish the spire, since it towered above other buildings and thus offended against the principle of equality; but saner counsels prevailed, and the spire suffered nothing worse than having a lead Jacobin cap set on its tip. The cathedral itself became a "Temple of Reason". In 1878-1879 a Romanesque dome was built over the crossing.
Visit Strasbourg Cathedral
The Strasbourg cathedral soars out of a huddle of medieval houses, with a spire of such delicate, flaky, lightness it seems the work of confectioners rather than masons. In the south transept the slender triple-tiered 13th century column, the Pilier des Anges, is decorated with some of the most graceful and expressive statuary of its age. Look also at the enormous and tremendously complicated astrological clock built by Schwilgue of Strasbourg in 1842, a big hit with guided tours who roll up in droves to witness the clock’s crowning performance of the day, striking the hour of noon with unerring accuracy at 12.30pm – noon.
During your visit in Strasbourg, stay at Hotel Cathédrale, a historic building from the Renaissance period. Its enviable location opposite the Cathedral Notre Dame de Strasbourg allows you to enjoy the vista of this architectural gem right when waking up.
It only takes you 3 clicks to easily reserve Hotel Cathédrale in Strasbourg on our secure web-site. Or why not call us over the phone +33 (0)1 40 980 990. Our team will be delighted to assist you in English !
Top of cathedral
At the side entrance to the cathedral, for approximately six euros, you can experience the most breathtaking view of Strasbourg. After climbing several tightly-wound spiral staircases you will find yourself on top of the cathedral. From here, the entire city of Strasbourg is visible, including the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and the European Court of Human Rights. The sight is a must for those physically capable of the long climb. From the top of Cathedral, you can have a nice view on one of the most exclusive four-star hotel in Strasbourg, Regent Petite France hotel.
Hotels near Cathedral
Our site has listed many hotel options in the area of the Cathédrale Notre Dame in Strasbourg:
Based on your travel dates, you can check room rates and availability online for the hotel Diana Dauphine or in hotel Hannong, a really nice 3 star hotel. Our hotel reservation site is the faster, easier way to find the hotel you want in the area of Cathedrale de Strasbourg.
Just a stone's throw from the Cathedral and the historical Petite France area, the Best Western Hotel de France welcomes you to the comfortable, warm setting of its 66 rooms, 10 of which are suites. The Hotel de France features room service and business center. Not far, you can stay in Regent Petite France hotel, There could be no better place to stay in Strasbourg. All 72 spacious rooms have full comfort with an exceptional view on the river and the old town. Facilities include the bar, restaurant "Le Pont Tournant" with terrace along the river Ill, sauna and fitness centre, garage and breakfast buffet.
