The Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris, begun in 1163 and completed in 1345, is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture located on the Île de la Cité, surrounded by the Seine River. Over the centuries, it has witnessed historic events such as the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1804 and the beatification of Joan of Arc in 1909. Damaged after the French Revolution, it was restored in the 19th century under the direction of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, who incorporated iconic elements such as the central spire and chimeras. The 2019 fire devastated much of the roof and destroyed the spire, setting in motion an ambitious restoration plan. Notre Dame has inspired art and literature, serving as the setting for Victor Hugo’s novel Notre Dame de Paris, which helped save the monument from decay.
The Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris offers visitors a unique experience. Its interior features three large rose windows, especially the one on the west side, which illuminate the sacred space with vibrant colors. The pointed arches and ribbed vaults show the complexity of the Gothic style. Not to be missed are the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and the historic altarpieces. It is possible to climb the towers to enjoy a panoramic view of Paris and to appreciate the details of the architecture and the historic bells, such as the Emmanuel, the main bell. In the archaeological crypt, you can explore the remains of ancient Roman Lutetia and take a journey through the history of the city.
- Address
6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, Paris, France - Web
https://www.notredamedeparis.fr/en/ - Visiting Hours
Temporary Closed - What to see
Notre Dame statue, tapestries of the Life of the Virgin, Stained Glass windows, Mausoleum of the Count of Harcourt, Bells, Treasure
