Poitiers - Cathedral

On the ruins of a older basilica begann, just next to the Baptistère Saint-Jean the construction of large Cathédrale Saint-Pierre in 1162. The building, the new the seat of the Archbishop of Poitiers, was greatly funded by Henry II of England (aka "Henri II Plantagenêt") and Eleanor of Aquitaine.

The construction started as usual in the east and was completed with the western facade end of the 13th century. The transition from the late Romanesque to the Gothic style is visible.

The "Porte Saint Michel" a small side portal was probably created around 1180. Here is a detail from the left side.

The Magi

First - I saw the three heads of the "Sleeping Magi" to the very left, but the carving is too damaged. The three objects may be as well "foliage" of a large tree.

Further right the Magi´s horses with grooms and to the right the crowned Magi line up in front of - Herod!! - For a while I saw the Magi in Bethlehem, but there is no child on the knees. A small devil lurks over Herod's right shoulder.