The Open Door Web Site : Living History Project : Charlemagne : Basilica of Saint Denis : Guided Tour

Inside

Note the shape of the cathedral : Roman basilica modified by a Christian cross. There is the central nave then the two lateral aisles which make the arms of the cross.

Nave

Interior, Basilica St Denis (photo by John Hembury)

= center aisle of a cathedral. Look at the central stained glass window above the choir (area in front of altar where the choir sings) in the back of the church. The nave ceiling is 24 metres high. Everything is built to to give idea of verticality‑ going up towards heaven. Look at the gothic arches and the columns as they rise up.

Here we can see an example of 3 storey elevation: each element on top of the other Arcade = series of arches supported by columns, piers or pillars Triforium = a gallery of arches above the side‑aisle vaulting in the nave of a church Clerestory = upper part of nave, transepts, choir of a church which contains windows to let in light This gives sense of direction, of going upwards ‑ man's journey from earth to heaven.

Notice changing light as it flows in and out of church. Notice sense of space : another important element of gothic architecture. Gothic architecture placed importance on framework i.e. piers, arches and buttresses NOT on the walls.

Ambulatory

aisleway surrounding the choir at east end of the cathedral. Here there are two large windows which are diaphanous (thin and transparent) And allow more light in. Gothic architecture tried to reduce wall surfaces. Light is an important element of religious symbolism of gothic cathedrals. On the ceiling we can see ribbed vaulting ( vaulting that crowns in a pointed arch) This was built by Suger and its influence on other buildings was very important.

South/North transept

(perpendicular, north/south crossing of the nave to form the horizontal unit of a cross) Here were 16 recumbent effigies commissioned by St Louis. 14 have survived. Their features are idealised ; they are crowned and carry a sceptre. Notice the different styles of tombs from the simple ones to the more extravagant ones.

Crypt

Explore it to see who is buried there.