400
Period: 1137-1144 (and later)
Techniques/Structure: Carolingian basilica, ambulatory/choir area, 7 radiating chapels with tracery windows (stained glass), arcade with pointed arches, exterior buttresses support upper wall, slender columns, "lux nova" new light, scultpure from north Tympanum showing the "cephalophoria", inspired by Temple of Solomon, Haghia Sophia, and writings of St. Denis, facade combines elements from Norman influence and sculpted portals from Southern France, small rose window in W. Facade, central portal with Last Judgement
Symbolism/Significance: prototypical (1st type) Gothic church
Function: French royal monastery,
burial place of royalty (Louis XII and Anne of Brittany),
burial place of St. Denis (1st bishop of Paris, martyr, and patron saint of French royalty)
What is Abbey Church of St. Denis