The landscape surrounding the historic market town of Chartres is dominated by the stupendous Cathedral Notre-Dame de Chartres, a U.N.E.S.C.O. World Heritage Site and considered to be the finest Gothic Cathedral in France. Located approximately 80 kilometres south-west of Paris, the town of Chartres is itself a lovely place, perched on a hill above the River Eure, looking out to the rich farmlands of the Beauce, which are known as the ‘granary of France’. The picturesque historic districts of Chartres are characterised by steep, narrow, cobble-stoned lanes and stairways which lead visitors down from the Cathedral to the tranquil river below. Here the riverbanks are lined with ancient houses, public wash-houses, tanneries and watermills, and can be explored by the walking route which follows the River Eure. Crossed by a medieval hump-backed bridge, the river setting provides an easy escape from the sometimes too busy areas of the Cathedral precincts. The Cathedral lies at the heart of the old town, and dominates the surrounding buildings by its sheer size. In addition the Cathedral has been built on a 30 metre promontory over the River Eure which adds to its already impressive structure that reaches over 100 metres towards the sky through its ornate spires.
The main reason visitors head to Chartres is due primarily for the Cathedral, but this charming historic centre deserves to be given a little time for further exploration. Several historic houses should be located just for their natural appeal such as the 16th century Maison du Saumon which can be found on the Place de la Poissonnerie, the oldest house in Chartres which was built in the 12th century is located at 29, Rue Chantault, and the medieval half-timbered houses which line the Rue des Ecuyers. There is also the original 13th century Town Hall and the newer 17th century Town Hall, and parts of the old fortifications which include the 14th century Porte Guillaume, a gateway flanked by towers. Although not of historic value, but instead of artistic value, there is also the unique Maison Picassiette which was decorated all over by naive art created from broken ceramics, painting and sculpture.
Providing visitors with an array of shopping facilities and refreshment opportunities, Chartres also boasts several museums, ancient churches, festivals and attractions. Some of which include the Museum of Fine Arts, the House of Archaeology, the Natural History and Prehistory Museum, the International Centre of Stained Glass Art, the Conservatory of Agriculture and the Military Museum.
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