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. The foundation was laid in the 12th century and construction continued through the 13th century. A colorful 13th century 105-panel rose window adorns the south side and flying buttresses […]
Place des Héros, or Petite Place, Arras, France
Place des Héros might be the smaller square, but the majestic town hall and belfry draw visitors’ eyes toward it. Although the square is no longer used as a main trading post, the Wednesday and Saturday morning markets are great venues for fresh produce, local foods, hand-crafted jewelry and decorative goods. The entire square, town […]
Hôtel de Ville and Beffroi (Town Hall and Belfry), Arras, France
This 16th-century Flemish-Gothic structure is the centerpiece of Place de Héros and, arguably, Arras. Think it looks great for its age? It should since much of it was rebuilt after being nearly decimated in the world wars. The 75 meter high belfry offers long views over Arras and the surrounding area. Access is provided via […]
Thionville Belfry
This is not just any old 4th century belfry – it served as a prison for the bourgeoisie during the French Revolution. Today, Thionville might seem like a sleepy little city straddling the Moselle, but its central location has thrust it into countless conflicts throughout the centuries. There’s a reason why ancient walls and ruins […]