Cathedral
Glossaries
Term | Definition |
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Cathedral | A cathedral is a Christian church that serves as the seat of a bishop. These buildings are often large and richly decorated, symbolizing the faith and religious power of their time. A cathedral is a major church in the Christian hierarchy, designated as the episcopal seat of a diocese. The term originates from the Latin "cathedra," meaning "chair" or "seat," symbolizing the presence of the bishop. Cathedrals are often located in significant cities and play a central role in the religious, social, and cultural life of their region. Architecturally, they are renowned for their imposing size, stained glass windows, sculptures, and artworks. The architectural styles vary from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. The construction of a cathedral could take several decades or even centuries, requiring considerable resources in terms of labor and materials. Today, they are symbols of historical and cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors and pilgrims each year. |