Most Beautiful Church

Some time ago, someone asked me, “out of all the churches you have visited, which one is your favorite?”

That’s a very difficult question to answer. Architectural styles vary so much making it difficult to compare structures. Some churches are impressive on account of their historical or spiritual significance rather than their actual physical beauty. Other impressive structures were once magnificent churches but are unfortunately no longer churches.

I have tossed this question around in my mind for some time, but in the end one particular church always comes to mind. No matter how many churches I consider, this one always makes it to the final round. It’s Notre Dame d’Amiens, in Amiens, France, about one hour north of Paris by speed train.

Construction on this impressive gothic church began in 1220 and was concluded by 1266. The rapidity with which the building was constructed gives the church an unmatched architectural harmony unlike many other medieval structures.

A common find at the central portal of medieval churches, this beautifully sculpted Last Judgement is found on the western facade of the cathedral. Jesus sits in judgement at the top center. To the left below him are the saved, to the right below him are the damned being led to hell by devils. In the lower level are angels blowing trumpets signaling the end of times and bodies rising from their graves in anticipation to the Last Judgement.

The cathedral contains a famous 17th century sculpture by Nicolas Blasset which is part of a tomb. The Weeping Angel is a very evocative work of art reminding us of the brevity of life by reclining his right elbow on a skull and resting his right on an hour-glass.

It may be more fair to classify my favorite churches by category, which I may very well do and share with you, but I have to say that the Cathedral of Amiens if on my short list of favorite churches. If you’re ever in Paris, don’t miss a visit to Notre Dame d’Amiens.