Essays about 100 cathedrals in Europe, divided by regions: France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Italy and Malta, Russia and Eastern Europe, Scandinavian countries and the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal. Renowned British author Simon Jenkins discusses the significance of each cathedral, the history of their construction and reconstructions, important details of the interior and façade, elements of decoration, and provides insight into the historical context and biographies of the architects. The preface includes a brief but comprehensive characterization of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and buildings of modern times. The book is excellently illustrated and includes a map of Europe showing the cathedrals in question.
"Cathedrals of Europe are the greatest works of art. They testify to the Christian faith, but also to achievements in architecture, construction, and crafts. Eight centuries have passed since most of them were built, yet nowhere in Europe—from Cologne to Palermo, from Moscow to Barcelona—have they lost their significance. Nothing compares to their grandeur. In Europe, there are hundreds of cathedrals, and I have chosen those that I consider the most beautiful. Most cathedrals are majestic. No other places of Christian worship can compare with them in size. And if they impress today, it's hard to even imagine how these towering structures must have affected the people of the Middle Ages... These are wonders of the world, made of brick, stone, wood, and glass, shrouded in an aura of mysteries." (Simon Jenkins)
