Final answer:
Gothic cathedrals often face towards the East due to the symbolic significance of the rising sun and the association with the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gothic cathedrals often face towards the East. This is because the apse, which held the altar and the Eucharist, is located in the eastern end of the church. The direction of the rising sun had symbolic significance, and facing the rising sun was associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The apse facing East aligned the church with the theological importance of the rising sun and served as a reminder of the Christian belief in the resurrection.