For almost two millennia, cathedrals have been among the most imposing, astonishing, and inspiring buildings in Europe. Regardless of faith, their scale and architectural daring has never ceased to spark wonder. This guide traces the development of the cathedral from its earliest beginnings as a Bishop’s house, through the Romanesque and Gothic periods, and up to the most extravagant contemporary designs around the world. In doing so, it sheds light on social, religious, and architectural history, as well as bringing the story of these extraordinary buildings to life.
Jonathan Gregson is a travel writer, financial journalist and editor.
He was editor of CAM (Cambridge Alumni Magazine), editorial consultant for FIRST magazine, and is a commentator on South Asia for BBC programmes. He taught history at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, in 1975-6 and at Pembroke College in Oxford while studying for a D.Phil. from 1977 to 1980.