FIG. 98. APSE, ST NAZAIRE, BÉZIERS.
The eastern apse was also rebuilt in the beginning of the fourteenth century. Here also ([Fig. 98]) wide machicolations are formed by arches thrown across between the buttresses, while the parapet above is finished with an open arcaded balustrade, which, in an ecclesiastical building, is more appropriate than an ordinary crenellation, and serves the same purpose equally well. These defences protect the large windows below from being taken by escalade, while, for still further security, the windows themselves are completely covered with strong ornamental iron grilles.
FIG. 99. CATHEDRAL OF ST NAZAIRE, BÉZIERS.
The interior ([Fig. 99]) exhibits a fine instance of Gothic design engrafted on the Southern ground plan.
The choir is a simple wide hall, terminated with an apse of the full width, and containing nine bays; while the groined and ribbed vaulting, and all the details of the windows, arches, and shafts, with their ornamentation, is entirely Gothic. The lower part has been finished at a much later period with Renaissance woodwork. In the manner in which the apse vaulting is carried out there is a strong reminiscence of the domical form; while the upright wall above the vaulting, with its circular eye at the junction of apse and choir, is a feature which recalls many Provençal examples.