Cathedral Cities of France

"Cathedral Cities of France" by Herbert Marshall and Hester Marshall is a journey through time and architecture that unveils France’s most historically rich cathedral cities. It guides travelers through the varying landscapes of these urban centers, classified by their enduring influence or faded grandeur, such as the still-vibrant Amiens and Rouen versus Chartres, which echoes with past importance. The book sets the stage by tracing the story of how these cities developed, from ancient Roman settlements to bustling cathedral towns, underlining the central roles played by formidable cathedrals, powerful local bishops, and the interactions between trade and religious belief in molding distinct cityscapes.