Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous and beloved landmarks in the world. Located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris, this iconic Gothic cathedral is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
While Notre Dame is currently closed to the public due to a devastating fire in 2019, there are still plenty of ways to learn about and appreciate this architectural masterpiece. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fascinating history of Notre Dame, its unique architectural features, and its significance to French culture.
Best Notre Dame Cathedral Things To Do and See
Once you arrive at Notre Dame Cathedral, there are a few things you can not miss:
- The West Façade: The West Façade of Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic sights in Paris. The façade is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, including the famous Gallery of Kings.
- The Rose Windows: Notre Dame Cathedral has two magnificent rose windows, one on the West Façade and one on the South Façade. The rose windows are some of the finest examples of stained glass in the world.
- The Nave: The Nave of Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the largest and most impressive in the world. The nave is lined with columns and arches, and it is topped by a soaring ceiling.
- The Choir: The Choir of Notre Dame Cathedral is where the high altar is located. The choir is also home to several important relics, including the Crown of Thorns.
- The Île de la Cité: The Île de la Cité is a small island in the Seine River that is home to several important landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle.
- The Latin Quarter: The Latin Quarter is a historic neighborhood in Paris that is known for its lively atmosphere and its many cafes and restaurants.
- The Jardin du Luxembourg: The Jardin du Luxembourg is a beautiful park located just a short walk from Notre Dame Cathedral. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Notre Dame Cathedral History
Construction on Notre Dame began in 1163 and was completed in 1345. The cathedral was built on the ruins of two earlier churches, which were themselves predated by a Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter.
Notre Dame was designed by a team of architects, including Maurice de Sully, Bishop of Paris. The cathedral was built in the Gothic style, which was characterized by its soaring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and elegant flying buttresses.
Notre Dame was consecrated in 1189, and it quickly became one of the most important religious and cultural centers in France. The cathedral has been the site of many important events, including the coronations of several French kings and the rehabilitation trial of Joan of Arc.
Notre Dame has also been a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics from around the world. The cathedral houses several relics, including the Crown of Thorns, which is believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.
Notre Dame Cathedral Facts
- Notre Dame Cathedral is the most visited monument in Paris, with over 12 million visitors each year before the fire in 2019.
- The cathedral is 427 feet long and 157 feet wide.
- The roof of the cathedral is 115 feet high.
- The two towers of the cathedral are over 200 feet tall.
- The cathedral has over 8,000 pipes in its organ.
- The cathedral is home to several important relics, including the Crown of Thorns.
- Notre Dame Cathedral has played a significant role in French history, including the coronations of several French kings and the rehabilitation trial of Joan of Arc.
- The original spire of Notre Dame Cathedral was 328 feet tall and collapsed in 1786. The spire was replaced in the 19th century by a new spire that was 437 feet tall. This spire was destroyed in the fire of 2019.
- The stained glass windows of Notre Dame Cathedral are some of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. The windows depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints.
- The bells of Notre Dame Cathedral are some of the largest and heaviest in the world. The largest bell, Emmanuel, weighs over 13 tons.
- Notre Dame Cathedral has been featured in many famous works of literature, including Victor Hugo’s novel “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.
Notre Dame Cathedral Significance
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in France. The cathedral has played a significant role in French history, and it is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics from around the world.
Notre Dame is also a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. The cathedral’s soaring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and elegant flying buttresses are admired by visitors from all over the world.
Tips for Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral
Once Notre Dame Cathedral reopens to the public, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your visit:
- Purchase your tickets in advance. Notre Dame is a popular tourist destination, so it is advisable to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
- Arrive early. Notre Dame Cathedral is busiest during the day, so it is best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Take your time. There is a lot to see and do at Notre Dame Cathedral, so take your time and enjoy the experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking at Notre Dame Cathedral, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring a water bottle. It can get hot inside Notre Dame Cathedral, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Be respectful. Notre Dame Cathedral is a sacred place, so be respectful of the other visitors and the cathedral itself.
Why is Notre-Dame Cathedral famous?
Notre Dame is famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, its rich history, and its cultural significance. The cathedral is considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, with its soaring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and elegant flying buttresses.
Notre Dame has also played a significant role in French history. It has been the site of many important events, including the coronations of several French kings and the rehabilitation trial of Joan of Arc. The cathedral is also a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics from around the world.
What is the current status of Notre-Dame Cathedral?
Notre Dame was severely damaged in a fire in April 2019. The roof and spire collapsed, but the main structure of the cathedral was saved. Reconstruction work is underway, and the cathedral is expected to reopen to the public in 2024.
In the meantime, there are still a few ways to experience Notre Dame. Visitors can admire the exterior of the cathedral from the surrounding square, and they can also visit the Notre Dame Archaeological Crypt Museum to learn about the history of the site.
Can you go inside Notre Dame?
Notre Dame is closed to the public due to the ongoing reconstruction work. However, visitors can still admire the exterior of the cathedral from the surrounding square.
Once the cathedral reopens, visitors will be able to explore the interior of Notre Dame and admire its stunning Gothic architecture. Visitors will also be able to learn about the cathedral’s rich history and its significance to French culture.
Conclusion
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris and in the world. While the cathedral is currently closed to the public, there are still plenty of ways to learn about and appreciate this architectural masterpiece. Visit the Notre Dame Archaeological Crypt Museum to learn about the history of the site, or simply admire the exterior of the cathedral from the surrounding square. Once the cathedral reopens to the public, be sure to visit and experience this incredible monument for yourself.