Chartres Cathedral
Chartres Cathedral, one of Europe's Gothic masterpieces, in the city of Chartres, France, 50 miles (80 km) southwest of Paris. The cathedral is on a hilltop that was sacred to the Druids and was built over the ruins of several earlier churches. It was consecrated in 1260.
The cathedral is renowned for its sculptures, particularly those in the Royal Doorway of the west front, and for some 170 stained glass windows. Especially beautiful are the large rose windows over the west, north, and south doorways. .) The cathedral's most treasured relic is the Virgin's Veil, believed to have been worn by Mary.