The Gothic Cathedral Of Sainte Cecile In Albi, France

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During the 4th century a structure existed, not a proven house of worship, but nonetheless burned down in 666AD. In 920, a building by the name of Saint Cecile, patroness of musicians, found its home upon the foundations.

Work began on the cathedral in 1282 in the town of Albi, which gave its name to the heretic sect, the Albigensians or Cathars. The papal war against the Albigensians was more than brutal, even by the standards of crusaders. The Gothic nature of the Cathedral of Sainte Cecile is no accident, as it's meant to intimidate religious rebels.

(thanks Lauren)