There’s something about a colorful stained glass window that just screams “GOTHIC.” Maybe it’s because they’re often found in old, spooky castles. Or maybe it’s because they look like they belong in a Tim Burton movie.
Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that stained glass windows are pretty darn cool. And some of them are even famous! Here are just a few of the most famous stained glass windows from around the world.
Here are some famous stained glass windows all around the world.
Famous Stained Glass Windows
- Chartres Cathedral (France)
- York Minister (England)
- Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque (Iran)
- LA Sagrada Familia (Spain)
- The Rosary Chapel (France)
- The Chapel of Thanksgiving (USA)
- King’s College Chapel (England)
Chartres Cathedral (France) – Built in the 13th Century
Sitting in the heart of the charming medieval town of Chartres, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture. Built in the 13th century, the cathedral has been meticulously restored and is now one of the most visited sites in France.
The exterior of the cathedral is adorned with intricately carved stone facades and soaring spires, while the interior is filled with beautiful stained glass windows and glimmering golden altars.
Although it was nearly destroyed during the French Revolution, the cathedral has been painstakingly rebuilt and now stands as a testament to the skill of its builders.
Today, visitors from all over the world come to admire this magnificent structure, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
York Minster (England) – Built in the 15th Century
Built in the 15th century, York Minster is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, many of which date back to the 13th century.
In addition to its architectural features, York Minster also has a rich history. For centuries, the cathedral has been a place of worship for the people of York.
It was also the site of two important coronations: that of Edward IV in 1461 and that of Charles I in 1626. Today, York Minster is one of the most popular tourist attractions in England. Millions of people visit the cathedral every year, to admire its beauty and to learn about its fascinating history.
Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque (Iran)– Built in the 19th Century
The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is a stunning example of Persian architecture, built in the late 19th century in the city of Shiraz, Iran. The mosque is renowned for its beautiful stained glass windows, which cast a colorful glow on the interior prayer hall.
The exterior of the mosque is equally impressive, with its intricate tilework and towering minarets. Visitors to the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque are often amazed by its beauty and serenity, and it is easy to see why it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shiraz.
LA Sagrada Familia (Spain) – Built in the 19th Century
La Sagrada Família is a world-famous Catholic church in Barcelona, Spain. Designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, the church is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city.
Construction of the church began in 1882, but it was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War and was not completed until 2010. The church is notable for its unique architecture, which combines elements of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.
The exterior of the church is decorated with intricate carvings and patterns, while the interior is filled with light and color. La Sagrada Família is a beautiful and inspiring example of religious architecture, and it is well worth a visit if you are ever in Barcelona.
The Rosary Chapel (France) – Built in the 18th Century
Nestled in the tranquil town of Vence in the South of France, the Rosary Chapel is a hidden gem. Built between 1943 and 1949, this beautiful chapel was designed by renowned artist and architect Henri Matisse.
The chapel is home to a stunning glass mosaic that covers the walls and ceiling. The theme of the mosaic is the Rosary, and it features biblical scenes and symbols. The chapel is open to the public, and it is well worth a visit if you are ever in the area.
The Chapel of Thanksgiving (USA) – Built in 1976
The Chapel of Thanksgiving was built in 1976 in Dallas, Texas, USA. The chapel is a beautiful building with a stunning interior. The chapel is open to the public and is used for thanksgiving services, weddings, and other events.
The chapel has a capacity of 200 people and is decorated with beautiful stained glass windows, a huge chandelier, and an elaborately carved altar.
The chapel is also home to a wonderful organ that is played during services. The Chapel of Thanksgiving is a beautiful building that is well worth a visit.
King’s College Chapel (England) – Built between the 15th & 16th Century
King’s College Chapel is one of the most iconic buildings in Cambridge, and arguably one of the most beautiful Gothic chapels in the world. Built between the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the Chapel is an architectural masterpiece, with a soaring perpendicular facade and exquisite fan vaulting.
The Chapel is also home to a wealth of artwork, including paintings by Rubens and tapestries by Sir Anthony van Dyck. Even if you’re not a particularly religious person, it’s worth visiting the Chapel just to appreciate its beauty.
However, be warned – it’s usually packed with tourists, so you might have to jostle for space!
Conclusion
So these are the most famous stained glass windows that you can see if you have a charm for stained glass art. These art pieces are located in different parts of the world so you can travel and explore while getting to see some of the world’s best art.
