2 of 2

Write now Article Tools

Stained glass has been used for centuries, first popular in Europe. The art of glass-blowing might not be new (since the Romans and Egyptians have been known for their decorative works of art), but stained glass was rarely used until somewhere between the 10th and 12th centuries. Churches began using stained glass panels to depict Biblical scenes, rivaling many of the famous oil paintings and murals created by artists such as Michelangelo's ceiling painting on the Sistine Chapel.

Eventually, the use of stained glass became another means of transforming the look of a building.

Today, stained glass panels and windows are seen everywherenot just at museums and historic landmarks. All over the world, people have sought ways of making colorful stained glass designs in various forms. Here are some of the best-known pieces and where they are found:

1. Oldest stained glass, at St. Dom Cathedral in Ausburg, Germany, circa 10th century.
2. Largest stained glass flag, at the Dole Institute of Politics, in Lawrence, Kansas. The flag contains 27 stained glass panels, and spans 8 feet by 8 feet in length.
3. Stained glass globe, at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, in Boston, Massachusetts. The unique globe, referred to as the Mapparium, is 3 floors high, with a bridge through it.
4. Largest stained glass window (in Russia), at St. Isaac's Cathedral, in St. Petersburg, Russia. Depicts an image of Jesus, and is 28.5 square meters in size.
5. Largest themed stained glass windows, at St. Monica's Cathedral, Queensland, Australia. These windows are known as the Creation Windows, 24 in total, spanning 1.7 meters wide and 6 meters high.

Learn more about this author, Natasha L. Kohlhoff Polak.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The world's most beautiful stained glass?
We want to hear your view. Write now!