Homepage Introduction Mazes or Labyrinths ? Labyrinth Locations Caerdroia Caerdroia Archive Labyrinthos Labyrinth Bibliography Photo Library Labyrinth Construction Books & Publications Tours News & Updates Labyrinthine Links Sitemap Terracotta Angel, c.1896 Watts Chapel, England Photo ©: Jeff Saward/Labyrinthos Please note, the contents of this website are © 2012 Labyrinthos unless stated otherwise. Please contact us for permission to reproduce any text or images Labyrinthos Photographic & Illustration Library Undoubtedly the best known labyrinth of its type, the beautifully preserved pavement labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral, France, was constructed during the second decade of the 13th century. The labyrinth is 12.9 metres (42.3 ft.) in diameter and fills the width of the nave. While much has been written about the purpose of this labyrinth, little contemporary documentation survives, although it is known that labyrinths in the French cathedrals were the scene of Easter dances carried out by the clergy. It is also popularly assumed that they symbolise the long tortuous path that pilgrims would have followed to visit this, and other shrines and cathedrals, during the medieval period. The Labyrinth from the organ loft Photo ©: Jeff Saward/Labyrinthos The Chartres Cathedral Labyrinth The Cathedral Candlelight labyrinth View from pulpit View from organ loft Labyrinth and nave Cathedral by night Plan of the Labyrinth Candlelit Labyrinth Current interest ensures that this labyrinth continues to receive visits from pilgrims to this day, although many are surprised to find the labyrinth often covered with chairs. At the moment, the labyrinth is usually uncovered on Fridays, during the summer months only. Below are a selection of photos of the labyrinth and some additional shots of the Cathedral. Chartres Cathedral Labyrinth http://www.labyrinthos.net/photo_library14.html 1 von 2 16.04.14 11:41