Spotlight On A Member

• An Interview with Dominique Lallement, President of the AFC
• The Cathedral’s History
• AFC Achievements and Programs
• Check the New Agenda

The Cathedral of Chartres is a monument of unmatched artistic, intellectual, cultural, and spiritual significance, and it was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979 for its paramount cultural importance.

Founded in 2005, the American Friends of Chartres (AFC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds in the United States to support the conservation of Chartres Cathedral, with a particular focus on its stained-glass windows and sculptures.

In an interview with Claude Porsella, a CT member and journalist, AFC President Dominique Lallement discusses the restoration efforts and cultural initiatives that have been carried out to preserve this iconic landmark.

Click here to watch the interview on our YouTube channel

The Cathedral’s History

The Millenium Celebrations of Chartres Cathedral are taking place in 2024-2025

Celebrations take place all over the country, bringing people together from all walks of life and all ages to share in the knowledge, friendship and beauty of Chartres Cathedral.

The fire at Notre-Dame is just one chapter in the long history of fires that have affected French cathedrals, including Chartres Cathedral. The cathedral’s early construction phases saw multiple parts of the church built, destroyed, and rebuilt dating back to the 4th century. This relentless drive to rebuild, restore, and protect the cathedral has resulted in the magnificent structure we admire today.

For a detailed history of the cathedral from the 4th century to this day, click here.

AFC Achievements and Programs

Beyond its restoration efforts, AFC plays a vital role in enhancing the cultural vitality of Chartres Cathedral through educational programs and initiatives that foster stronger ties of friendship between France and the United States.

AFC also co-financed a film that documents the work of the restorers, conservators, scientists and architects who share their passion behind the scenes for this exceptional historical and cultural site.

Click here for the possibility to rent the film

Click here to see its stained glass, sculptures, and paintings restored with the help of AFC.

To stay informed about the many programs and conferences organized by AFC, be sure to check our Agenda and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Upcoming Conferences:

• January 31st – The Illuminated Window: Stories Across Time at the Alliance Française of Washington
Event Details Here

• February 13th – Exploring the Chartres Labyrinth in its Original Context (Online)
Register Here

Visit Chartres

• February 12-15, 2025 - Exclusive Visit to Chartres Cathedral: American Friends of Chartres organizes a remarkable journey to the renowned Chartres Cathedral, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience its artistry, history, and conservation efforts up close.

AFC regularly organizes visits to Chartres. Click here to find out about future dates

Additional Resources

Discover online lectures at AFC Online Lectures, including the remarkable story of American Colonel Welborn Griffith who saved Chartres Cathedral during WWII.

Check the Agenda

You will continue to have a detailed list of our Members events, but you can also see it in a monthly format.
We hope this will make it easier for you to...Save the Date.