Poitiers - Cathedral

On the ruins of a older basilica begann, just next to the Baptistère Saint-Jean the construction of large Cathédrale Saint-Pierre in 1162. The building, the new the seat of the Archbishop of Poitiers, was greatly funded by Henry II of England (aka "Henri II Plantagenêt") and Eleanor of Aquitaine.

The construction started as usual in the east and was completed with the western facade end of the 13th century.

The transition from the late Romanesque to the Gothic style is visible. The three Gothic portals of the western facade seem influenced by the Gothic cathedrals from northern France.

The tympanum of the central portal depicts the "Last Judgment", a "traditional" theme, as this can often found on Romanesque tympana.

The tympanum is densely populated and delicately carved. Tombs open on the lowest tier, while above them souls go to heaven (left) or enter the "Mouth of Hell" (right). Christ is flanked by angels, who hold the "Arma Christi". The icon "Instruments of the Passion" got popular during the 13th century.