Amiens was one of five Gothic cathedrals on the WH list, which we visited on our trip through northern France in summer 2015, so it can be said that I have physically experienced the over-representation of this category. Having said that, I must admit that the Amiens Cathedral was my favourite Gothic cathedral.

The exterior is very similar to the cathedral in Reims: the impressive size, the elaborate sculptures on the west portal, the striking rose window. The construction of both cathedrals started around the same time in the early 13th century. But the real surprise was the interior, in particular how bright it is, an excellent example for light-flooded Gothic architecture. Amiens has the highest nave of all WHS cathedrals, but it is also a filigree and elegant construction. And there are a lot of notable artworks: the wood carvings of the choir stalls, many polychrome sculptures, and the marble pulpit. The floor is tiled in striking black-and-white geometric patterns. In the centre of the pattern is the labyrinth. Unlike in Chartres, it is not the original from the Middle Ages because it was destroyed during the French Revolution. The new labyrinth was built true to the original at the beginning of the 19th century. But the big plus in Amiens: the labyrinth is not covered with chairs, it is visible!

We also visited the light show at night that recreates the original colours of the façade. It was much better than expected. The colours were projected onto the sculptures with high precision, so that we could study the effect even at close distance. Hard to believe that the façade was once so colourful.

Five cathedrals in three weeks was a bit too much of Gothic symbolism: these high naves and ribbed vaults, the slender columns that seem to rise directly up into the sky, the elaborately crafted portals, all these stained glass windows and the play of light and colour. Undoubtedly, they are all masterpieces of art and architecture. However, I never became really enthusiastic about Gothic style. So in the end our trip to northern France confirmed my preference for Romanesque architecture.