Abbot Suger's Abbey Church of Saint-Denis

Abbot Suger's Abbey Church of Saint-Denis, built in the 12th century near Paris, is a seminal example of Gothic architecture. Suger, the abbot, innovatively combined Romanesque and early Gothic styles to create a structure that emphasized light and space. Key features include large stained-glass windows and ribbed vaults, which were revolutionary at the time. The church served as a royal burial site and symbolized the power of the monarchy, influencing future cathedrals across Europe. Its design marked a shift in architectural practices, inspiring the evolution of Gothic cathedrals throughout the region.