ICL is at home: Saturday Photo Hunt

Saturday, March 10, 2007

Saturday Photo Hunt - Architecture

Notre Dame Cathedral, Strasbourg, France

INTERESTING THINGS ABOUT THE CATHEDRAL

Also known at the Straßburger Münster, (translation Our Lady's Cathedral) building commenced in the 12th century and was completed in 1439 and at that time was known as the World's Tallest Building at 142 metres. It remained the tallest church in the world until 1880.

It is known as a fine example of late Gothic architecture.

During the reign of the Jacobins (left wing political club from the French Revolution) many churches and cloisters were either destroyed or severely damaged. The cathedral lost hundreds of its statues (later replaced by copies in the 19th century) and there was talk of tearing its spire down, on the grounds that it hurt the principle of equality. The tower was saved, however, when citizens of Strasbourg crowned it with a giant phrygian cap, (think elf) now long lost.

Speaking of architecture, here is a photo that I took of the Palais du Rhin (Imperial Palace) in the area known to have the most German influence in the development of the city that is one of the largest fully preserved landmarks of 19th century Prussian architecture. It is the most political and thus heavily criticized of all German Strasbourg buildings and epitomizes the grand scale and stylistic sturdiness of this period. Here's the wikipedia shot.

So in researching the importance of these shots I was reminded of all the interesting information about the city so I am writing a Thursday Thirteen on it.

Come back here on Thursday for Thursday 13 for interesting facts about Strasbourg!

You'll learn all about the French and German roles in the development of the city

Labels: Saturday Photo Hunt, Strasbourg

posted by Irish Church Lady :) @ 9:05 AM

15 ppl had things to say:

At 10:21 AM, The Open Range Camping Family said…

Oh, I love that picture. How amazing.
At 10:46 AM, Andree said…

Can you imagine tearing part of that down? They didn't know what a work of art it was. And now, the replica statues are probably very valuable, too. I love the perspective of the photo!
At 11:07 AM, ribbiticus said…

great photo of notre dame. one of my vry best friends got married there. too bad they were in such a rush they didn't have time to invite friends to enjoy the sights...mine's up, too! ;)
At 11:19 AM, Anonymous said…

That is just lovely. Whether it's God's work or the work of men to the glory of God, it is so beautiful!
At 11:40 AM, Anonymous said…

Beautiful photos - I love the effect of the one taken at night in Strasbourg.
At 11:46 AM, PastormacsAnn said…

Wow you did a wonderful job with the theme this week! Great pictures (love that one of Norte Dame) and I appreciate the history behind these treasures too. Great picks for The Hunt.
At 11:53 AM, Carole Burant said…

It's amazing how they could build such buildings in those days when they didn't have the tools we have today...what an awesome cathedral Notre Dame is!! Beautiful! Have a wonderful day:-) xox
At 2:47 PM, srp said…

How breathtaking! How can you breath in there with such beauty all around? I would be looking so hard and up and down and I'm sure to have a neck cramp after visiting there. On my list of places to see.
At 7:28 PM, Teena in Toronto said…

Wow! What a great shot! I love the lights!

Mine's up :)
At 7:59 PM, PowersTwinB said…

What a beutiful photo of Norte Dame! I would love to see this in person! My photo is up, please come and visit!
At 8:15 PM, jennyr said…

great place to find beautiful architectural designs...very neat!
At 8:58 PM, Unknown said…

I had an oohh-ahh moment when I saw your Notre Dame shot. Wonderful! :)
At 12:44 AM, Heather said…

Oh wow, those are really amazing pictures!! I can't believe people tear them down or destroy them!
At 9:32 AM, Heart of Rachel said…

I'm glad that magnificent structure was saved. What a great lost it would have been if it was tore down. Thanks for sharing these great photos.
At 12:04 AM, Desert Diva said…

I've actually visited this site many years ago. Have a great week!