Although the fascinating ceilings steal the show in most Christian religious architectures, one should not miss the beauty under their feet. Here are some of the best marble floors inside churches and cathedrals.
Cathedral of Siena
Completed between the 13th and 18th centuries, the marble floor of the Siena Cathedral is probably the most important example of its kind in Italy. The Sienese artists depicted 60 scenes from the Bible by engraving white marble and filling the lines with black putty. Later artists added colored marble by mimicking the wood inlaying method.
Basilica of San Clemente in Rome
The Cosmatesque floors of the Basilica of San Clemente comprise colored ancient marble pieces inlaid with opus sectile technique. This type of floor decoration takes its name from the Cosmati family seven members of which were successful architects specialized in geometric floor decorations.
Cattedrale Di Santa Maria Maggiore Civita Castellana in Viterbo
Pamposa Abbey in Ferrara, Italy
The church of Pamposa Abbey is a Ravennan Romanesque-style basilica with 12th-century Cosmatesque marble floors and mosaic inlaid stone pavement.
Chartres Cathedral
Originating in the early 1200s, the labyrinth within Chartres Cathedral is a notable highlight, situated on the floor at the heart of the nave. Although labyrinths were once commonplace in Gothic cathedrals, many were eventually removed due to concerns about distraction during religious services. These intricate designs, like the one at Chartres, symbolize the profound, meandering path toward salvation, offering a singular route for contemplation. During specific days, the chairs in the nave are cleared, allowing visiting pilgrims to engage with the labyrinth and experience its spiritual significance.
Amiens Cathedral Labyrinth, France
In early Christianity, labyrinths symbolize an allegorical path through which a believer can penance for their sins. The labyrinth in the Amiens Cathedral has the same path arrangement as the Chartres Cathedral but differs in shape. The original labyrinth dates back to 1288; however, it got great damage due to vandalism acts in 1825. Later, expert masons restored the floor according to its original form and color.
Florence Cathedral
