The look-out tower, still in use
Towers, spires, turrets – Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Lausanne has it all. It is considered the most beautiful Gothic building in Switzerland. And, it is the largest.
Beautiful Gothic details
The foundation was laid in the 12th century and construction continued through the 13th century.
The rose window
A colorful 13th century 105-panel rose window adorns the south side and flying buttresses encircle the choir and ambulatory.
Interior
Post-Reformation, the altars, statuary, glass and screens were removed.
Lausanne is the last European city to keep the night watchman tradition alive. Lausanne suffered from many medieval fires. Every night between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., a night watchman calls out an hourly all’s well from the belfry. This was more meaningful in the Middle Ages, when most of the town’s houses were made of wood. Climb the belfry for a vast view over the city.
One Response to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Lausanne