Strasbourg Cathedral, an iconic masterpiece, is one of the most extraordinary examples of Gothic architecture in the world.

Towering over the city of Strasbourg in northeastern France, it is not only a marvel of engineering and design but also a living piece of history. Whether you’re in the Alsace region for business or leisure, a visit to this magnificent cathedral is a must.

Here are 15 iconic facts that will give you a deeper appreciation for this architectural gem.

1. A Historic Location

Strasbourg Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg, is located in the city of Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region and the Bas-Rhin department of France. It sits proudly at the heart of Strasbourg, which is not just a charming medieval city but also a major European hub. The city hosts several key European institutions, including the European Parliament, and is considered one of the four capitals of Europe.

2. Construction Took Over Four Centuries

The construction of the Strasbourg Cathedral began in 1015, and it took an astonishing 424 years to complete. The project experienced several delays, including the tragic destruction of the original Romanesque structure by fire in 1176. After this setback, Bishop Heinrich von Hasenburg oversaw the rebuilding, and the cathedral’s modern Gothic appearance started to take shape. If you’re planning to explore this architectural wonder, be sure to book Strasbourg for an unforgettable experience.

3. Built on Layers of History

Strasbourg Cathedral stands on a site steeped in history. Originally, the site hosted a Roman sanctuary, which was followed by a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary and a 7th-century cathedral. A Carolingian cathedral stood in its place before the ambitious construction of the current structure began in the early 11th century.

4. A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture

While the early stages of the cathedral were influenced by Romanesque architecture, it is the cathedral’s Gothic design that makes it famous worldwide. Construction transitioned to the Gothic style around 1225, largely influenced by the architects of Chartres Cathedral. The result is an awe-inspiring blend of architectural grandeur and intricate design.

5. Tallest Building in the World for 227 Years

For 227 years, Strasbourg Cathedral held the title of the tallest building in the world. Its spire reaches an impressive height of 142 meters (466 feet), which made it the tallest structure on Earth from 1647 to 1874. It wasn’t until the St. Nikolai Church in Hamburg surpassed it that Strasbourg’s cathedral lost its crown.

6. Enduring Records

Today, the Strasbourg Cathedral is still the tallest medieval church in the world and ranks as the 6th tallest church globally. Its spire is so prominent that it can be seen from up to 30 kilometers away, including from the surrounding Vosges Mountains and the Black Forest, making it an unmistakable landmark.

7. Erwin von Steinbach’s Legacy

Erwin von Steinbach, one of the main architects behind the cathedral’s construction, is celebrated for his vision and craftsmanship. Active between 1244 and 1318, Steinbach’s influence is seen throughout the cathedral, especially in the design of the west façade. His legacy is honored with statues near the cathedral and in his hometown of Steinbach, Baden-Baden.

8. The West Façade: A Gothic Masterpiece

One of the most striking features of Strasbourg Cathedral is its west façade, designed by Erwin von Steinbach. This façade is a Gothic marvel, adorned with thousands of figures representing biblical scenes and saints. It stands as one of the finest examples of Gothic artistry, with its level of detail drawing visitors from all over the world.

9. Renaissance Revival: The Northern Portal

The northern portal of Strasbourg Cathedral, known as the Saint-Lawrence portal, was redesigned during the early 16th century. Under the direction of Jakob von Landshut and Hans von Aachen, this portal was given a Renaissance makeover, adding another layer of artistic richness to the cathedral’s exterior. The original sculptures from this portal are now housed in the Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame.

10. Pioneering Architectural Innovation

Strasbourg Cathedral played a pivotal role in the history of architecture. Its façade is believed to be one of the first buildings that required architectural drawings for its construction. This innovation marked a significant moment in architectural history, influencing designs across Europe in the centuries that followed.

11. Asymmetry and Unfinished Tower

One of the unique features of the Strasbourg Cathedral is its asymmetry. The cathedral has only one completed tower—the towering spire. The second tower, intended to mirror the first, was never finished due to financial constraints. This missing tower gives the cathedral its distinctive silhouette.

12. Saved During the French Revolution

During the turbulent years of the French Revolution, many religious buildings were targeted for destruction. However, the spire of Strasbourg Cathedral was spared from demolition, thanks to a clever move by local citizens. To protect the cathedral from the revolutionaries, they dressed the spire in a Phrygian cap, a symbol of the revolution, effectively saving it from harm.

13. Stunning Stained-Glass Windows

Strasbourg Cathedral is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful stained-glass windows in the world. Many of these masterpieces date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. During World War II, the windows were removed and hidden in a salt mine for safekeeping, where they survived the war. They were later returned to the cathedral, preserving their timeless beauty.

14. The Astronomical Clock

One of the cathedral’s most fascinating features is its astronomical clock, installed in 1843. This clock is a wonder of medieval and Renaissance craftsmanship, featuring a procession of Christ and the Apostles as well as a rooster that crows three times. The clock still functions today, captivating visitors with its intricate mechanism and historical significance.

15. Breathtaking Views from the Observation Deck

For those seeking panoramic views of Strasbourg, the cathedral offers an observation deck at a height of 66 meters (217 feet). From this vantage point, visitors can admire the stunning cityscape, the lush surroundings of the Alsace region, and the picturesque areas stretching as far as the Vosges Mountains. On clear days, the cathedral’s spire can be seen from over 30 kilometers away.