Where did the labyrinth originate?
Concentrating primarily on the labyrinths of the western world, these symbols were originally connected to the ancient Greek legend concerning King Minos of Crete, who had an inescapable labyrinth built to house the ferocious half-man, half-bull Minotaur.
How old is the Chartres labyrinth?
The labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral dates back to 1205, when monks used it for contemplative moments. These days, it’s one of the world’s best-known labyrinths.
What is the Chartres cathedral known for?
Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral, located in the Centre-Val-de-Loire region, is one of the most authentic and complete works of religious architecture of the early 13th century. It was the destination of a pilgrimage dedicated to the Virgin Mary, among the most popular in all medieval Western Christianity.
What is the Chartres cathedral made of?
limestone
The present cathedral was constructed on the foundations of the earlier church and consecrated in 1260. It is built of limestone and stands some 112 feet (34 metres) high and is 427 feet (130 metres) long.
Where is the labyrinth in Chartres in France?
One of the best examples of a Medieval Pavement Labyrinth can be found in the west side of the nave in Chartres Cathedral in France. Constructed around the beginning of the 13th century, and widely used as an open-eyed, activity meditation tool, it is an integral part of any visit to this church. Such a labyrinth is not to be confused with a maze.
Where is the Cathedral of Chartres in France?
A true embodiment of French Gothic expression in architecture, Chartres Cathedral sits some 50 miles southwest of Paris, in the commune of Chartres. The cathedral was built to be higher and bigger than other cathedrals of the era.
When did the first Labyrinth appear in Europe?
The labyrinth depicts the pilgrim’s quest and journey to the Holy Land. Such labyrinths began to appear in Europe during the 12th century, and it was this one in Chartres that served as the standard which other recreations followed. Chartres Cathedral labyrinth.
How big is the labyrinth in Notre Dame?
With approximately 13 meters diameter, the labyrinth takes place the entire width of the central nave. It forms more than 261 meters pathway. Different sources mention different number of measures related to this labyrinth.