Does anyone know the current status of renovations at Chartres cathedral? I hope to go there next month but do not want to go if it is a disappointment because of scaffolding, etc.
Thanks for any help you can provide.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
I don't, but as an aside, you can just about guarantee that at any given time, some major landmark on a European itinerary is undergoing renovation. I seem to recall some indoor scaffolding when I visited Chartres in 2006, and it had little effect on my appreciation of the cathedral.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
Apparently it's scheduled through 2015 but is moving along faster than planned, and small sections are being done so it should be possible to still enjoy the cathedral.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
2790 posts
I went in May. 50% of the place was under scaffolding. Everything from the alter back was inaccessible. I would make sure more is open before you go. I found it very disappointing
Posted by
Fontainebleau, France
893 posts
I took my parents earlier this year and had the same experience as Carol. It was completely not worth the time/money/effort to get out there, as we were unable to see about half the stain glass windows and the chapels that it is so famous for.
Posted by
Frisco, TX, United States
59 posts
Was there the beginning of October. Renovations are no disruption. Enjoyed it.