Life and Miracles of Saint Nicholas
Chartres Cathedral, France

photos courtesy of Gordon Plumb

Chartres is said to have one of the most complete collections of medieval stained glass in the world. The glass escaped harm during the 16th century religious wars. During World War II it was safe-guarded by being removed and stored in the surrounding countryside. Following the war it was reinstalled. One of the large, tall windows is devoted to the life and legends of Saint Nicholas. The window is shown in sections, with links for the stories. The whole window may be seen below.

Top: Infant Nicholas fasting Middle: Answer to Prayer: Birth of Nicholas Birth of Nicholas           First Bath Bottom: Donors: spice merchants, apothecaries

The Evil Butcher Inkeeper lures students          Murders students

Top: How Nicholas Became a Bishop Middle: The Story of the Dowries Nicholas gives gold          Father thanks Nicholas Bottom: Nicholas the Student

Famine Relief Nicholas asks for grain     Grain for Myra

Top: Consecration as Bishop Middle: One Cup or Two Boy falls into sea          Boy returned Bottom: Fire Did Not Consume

Famine Relief Nicholas blessing     All grain delivered

Top: The Guardian Middle & below: The Deceitful Borrower Middle right: Nicholas as guarantor          Middle left: Cart reveals fraud Bottom: Hollow staff fraud

Click to see entire window

Photos: copyright © Gordon Plumb, North Lincolnshire, England. Used by permission.