The most remarkable characteristics of the cathedral are the perspective of the lateral walls and the unity of the interior space. Criterion (i): Bourges Cathedral is of considerable importance in the development of Gothic architecture and as a symbol of the strength of Christianity in medieval France. Criterion (iv): Although Bourges Cathedral lies outside the mainstream of the French Gothic, represented by St Denis, Paris, Chartres or Amiens, it strongly influenced the architectural values of cathedrals of this style. IntegrityThe design of Bourges Cathedral has been respected and has remained unaltered over the centuries. Protection and management requirementsProperty of the State, managed in part by the National Monuments Centre, Bourges Cathedral has been listed as Historic Monument since 1862.