In the very heart of the French cityof Meaux, much of the action is centered around a historic cathedral dating back centuries. Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Meaux is one of France’s most impressive Roman Catholic churches and dates all the way back to the 12th-century, though it wasn’t officially completed until well into the 17th-century.

The reasons for why the cathedral took so long to build are varied; but insufficient funds, occupation by the English, and the hundred year war all hindered the build. Like other European religious buildings that took literal centuries to complete (the Italian Monastery, Certosa di Pavia springs to mind), the resulting church is a beautiful blend of architectural styles.

Meaux Cathedral is considered the sister of Notre Dame de Paris by its size and style.

Romanesque and Gothic features can be found side by side if you examine the structure carefully enough.

Meaux cathedral does not require a ticket, this stunning place is free to visit and spending some time inside before or after the performance is a must: the ornate carvings to be found inside, as well as the high vaulted ceilings are incredible.