Gothic Сathedrals in the Fire of the World War: Monuments of Medieval Architecture in the Visual Historical Evidence of the 20th Century

Gothic cathedrals, symbols of medieval architecture and cultural heritage, became poignant subjects in the visual narratives of World War I and II. Amateur photographs from these periods depict the devastation wrought by conflict on iconic sites like Amiens Cathedral, Reims, Rouen, and Rotterdam's Sint-Laurenskerk, offering a stark contrast to their pre-war grandeur. These images, alongside earlier ones, provide a unique lens to explore the 'Traditional Church in Modern Culture,' revealing how medieval monuments were perceived and documented during the 20th century. The study leverages these visual records to bridge historical and cultural discourses, contributing to the understanding of how societies grappled with the destruction of their heritage while reflecting on its enduring significance.

Bakus, G. (2023). Gothic Сathedrals in the Fire of the World War: Monuments of Medieval Architecture in the Visual Historical Evidence of the 20th Century. Istoriya, 14(7 (129)), 0. https://doi.org/10.18254/s207987840026931-3