Chartres City Guide
The medieval town of Chartres is situated on the banks of the River Eure. With its well preserved architecture, stunning examples of stained glass, famous Cathedral and attractive green spaces there is no doubt that Chartres is a charming town.
What to do and see in and around Chartres
Chartres Cathedral
The gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral of Chartres dates back to 1134 and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The stained glass windows date back to approximately 1205. Don't miss trying to find your way through the labyrinth set in the Cathedral's floor. Another feature to look out for is the distinctive copper plate roof, which replaced the original structure when it was destroyed by fire in 1836.
Eglise Saint-Pierre
With its dramatic interior lit up by its equally stunning stained glass windows, this former abbey church built in the 11th century is a very graceful building and one worth visiting.
International Stained Glass Centre
For those interested in the art of stained glass making, the stained glass centre offers introductory courses as well as guided visits and exhibitions of ancient and modern stained glass. Where better to learn about this fascinating art form than in Chartres?
Parc des Bords de l'Eure
Enjoy green surroundings and relaxing riverside views in the Park on the banks of the Eure. With a games area for children, an animal park and a golf course there is plenty to do in the park itself, but if you prefer to take to the water there is also access to boat trips, pedaloes and canoes.
The House of Picassiette
Taking recycling to another level, in 1938 Raymond Isidore (nicknamed Picassiette) used broken crockery and porcelain to glittering effect by turning both the interior, exterior and contents of his house into a colourful mosaic. Chartres acquired the house in October 1981 and it was classified as a historic monument in November 1983.
The Maison du Saumon
This attractive house close to the Cathedral dates back to the early 1500s and is adorned with wooden sculptures. The Maison de Saumon serves as yet another example of Chartres’ attractive and historic architecture.
Saint-Nicolas ‘Tertre’
Chartres has many ‘tertres’ or steep lanes and stairways taking visitors from the upper to the lower town. The Saint-Nicolas ‘Tertre’, once used by water carriers, is now a fantastic viewpoint from which to see the upper town.
Museum of Fine Arts
Where better to view beautiful works of art than in a beautiful setting? The Museum of Fine Arts is housed in the former Bishop’s Palace and contains fine art both modern and old such as Zurbaran, Chardin, Vlaminck and Soutine.
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