Medieval structures, such as castles and cathedrals, are truly remarkable to witness. These ancient, grandiose monuments showcase the architectural brilliance of the period, demonstrating both the skill and dedication of the people who built them. Not only are these structures awe-inspiring in their scale and beauty, but a closer look also reveals a wealth of interesting features. If you still want to bet live on 20Bet, we suggest you take a break and check out these medieval beauties.
1. Westminster Abbey, England
Westminster Abbey is an iconic medieval structure located in London, England. Built in 1042, this grand abbey has served as a place of worship, burial ground, and even coronations for centuries. It is a part of the rich history of the English monarchy and houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts. It’s also one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a unique insight into the past.
The impressive architecture of Westminster Abbey is made up of several Gothic styles, which has been carefully preserved over the centuries. Some of the most notable features of the building include its two grand towers, several ornate stained glass windows, and the historic Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor. Inside, visitors will find intricate carvings, intricately decorated tombs, and a wide variety of artifacts.
Throughout history, Westminster Abbey has been the site of many momentous occasions, from royal ceremonies to important state funerals. Notable figures, like Queen Elizabeth I and 19 of the country’s monarchs, have been buried on the grounds. The abbey has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is still an active place of worship. It continues to be an important landmark and destination for tourists from around the world.
2. Notre-Dame de Paris, France
Notre-Dame de Paris, also commonly referred to as simply Notre-Dame, is a landmark medieval cathedral of immense historical and cultural significance. Located on an island in the heart of Paris, France, and overlooking the Seine river, the Gothic masterpiece is a celebrated tourist attraction and a treasured emblem of the city.
The initial structure of Notre-Dame was commissioned by King Louis VII in the 12th century, with further modifications made by subsequent monarchs, and the cathedral was completed in 1345. Its distinctive French Gothic architecture has been a source of inspiration for other grand building projects throughout Europe, such as the Cathedrals of Cologne and Amiens. For centuries, it held the status of the largest cathedral in the world until the 19th century.
Notre-Dame is not only a stunning example of medieval architecture, but a religious site of immense importance. As it has already been in the centuries prior, it is a popular destination for weddings, baptisms, and other religious ceremonies. Furthermore, the relic of the Crown of Thorns and multiple paintings from the 15th century, some of which depict stories from the bible, are all sadly left behind.
3. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most recognizable and iconic Goliath structures in the world. Located in the city of Pisa in Italy, the tower is a relic of European medieval architecture and a symbol of the history and rich cultural heritage of Pisa. An unusual structure, the Leaning Tower stands at a mere 58.36 meters tall and has been leaning ever since it was built in 1173.
This remarkable structure has a unique architectural style that distinguishes it from other buildings constructed in the same era. The tower was built as part of a larger cathedral complex, which included a Baptistry, cemetery, and campanile. Each of these components is connected by a series of arcaded galleries. The tower itself has eight stories, made out of marble and brick, with a circular stairway winding up around the exterior.
Throughout the years, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has been a symbol of Italian pride, attracting tourists from all around the world. Its fame and celebrity status has doubled since the 1960s when the tower was placed on the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
Currently, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is monitored and maintained to make sure that it does not suffer further setbacks or damage. Innovative stabilizing devices have been put in place to reduce the angle of inclination and to keep the tower safe. This way, the tower can continue to stand and shine as a testament to the strength, power, and artistry of medieval architecture.
