Ad Orientem: the Orientation of Gothic Cathedrals of France

TL;DR

This paper investigates the orientation of Gothic cathedrals in France using satellite imagery, revealing that most are aligned with the rising sun, consistent with medieval practices.

Contribution

It provides a systematic analysis of cathedral orientations across France, utilizing satellite maps to confirm historical orientation practices.

Findings

Most Gothic cathedrals face the rising sun.

Orientation patterns are consistent with medieval religious practices.

Satellite imagery effectively reveals historical architectural orientations.

Abstract

Here the orientation of the Gothic cathedrals in France is discussed and investigated using the satellite maps. Except a few of them, these buildings have the apse facing the rising sun, according to a practice adopted during the middle age.