Experience art and culture: Gothic seminar in the Neustadt monastery!
Neustadt an der Weinstraße: Participation in the ancient cultures seminar series in the monastery from February. Thematic: French Gothic.

Experience art and culture: Gothic seminar in the Neustadt monastery!
A new seminar format is making culture enthusiasts in Neustadt sit up and take notice. The first Ancient Cultures seminar series begins in February and is dedicated to a fascinating topic: the cathedrals in Champagne and Picardy. The focus is particularly on the impressive Notre-Dame in Reims, which is not only an architectural masterpiece but is also considered the coronation church of the French kings. As rheinpfalz.de reports, the seminar series will open with a focus on the French Gothic period and promises exciting insights into bygone eras.
But what makes the Gothic so special? Gothic art developed in France during the Middle Ages and produced numerous impressive buildings, many of which are located in the Aisne, Somme and Oise departments. As nordfrankreich-erleben.com highlights, it is the many cathedrals in particular that impress with their cross vaults and pointed arches. Victor Hugo, a great admirer of Gothic architecture, repeatedly placed the beauty of these buildings at the center of his works.
A look at the Gothic
Gothic architecture has its roots in the Île-de-France around 1140 and continued north of the Alps until the 16th century. It is characterized by innovative techniques that made it possible to create brighter and higher rooms. Tracery and large stained glass windows are used, bringing light and spirituality into the interior of the churches. Even for the clergy and emerging cities, cathedrals were built to demonstrate power and faith. The cathedrals that can still be admired today are not only an expression of faith, but also of good craftsmanship and technical know-how of the Middle Ages.
A notable example is Beauvais Cathedral, which was only partially completed due to two collapses - only the choir and transept remain today. As Wikipedia explains, the Gothic era was also influenced by local conditions and gave rise to different styles, such as the Gothique primitif and the Gothique rayonnant in France or the Early English Style in England.
Seminar series as a cultural journey
The Ancient Cultures seminar series promises not just a look into history, but a comprehensive cultural journey through the eras. In addition to the first seminar on the Gothic period, the topics of the ancient Persian Empire, the late antique and Byzantine periods as well as Islamic art and culture are also covered. The event location, the Neustadter Kloster, offers the perfect setting for this exchange about art and history. This is considered a significant event in European culture and invites you to immerse yourself deeply in the diversity of art and architecture.
So if you are interested in learning more about the fascinating aspects of Gothic art as well as other cultures, you should not miss the first session in February. The Ancient Cultures seminar series promises a true feast for the spirit and will certainly attract many interested parties.