Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, and one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic architecture in the world. The cathedral is located on the Île de la Cité, a small island in the Seine River that has been the heart of Paris since Roman times. The cathedral is an architectural masterpiece, with its intricate stonework, soaring vaulted ceilings, and stunning stained glass windows. Here is everything you need to know about visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

History of Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th centuries, and it took almost 200 years to complete. The cathedral was constructed on the site of an earlier church, which had been dedicated to Saint Stephen. The new cathedral was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and it was designed to be one of the grandest churches in Europe.

Over the centuries, Notre-Dame Cathedral has witnessed many historical events, including the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte as emperor of France in 1804, and the beatification of Joan of Arc in 1909. In 2019, the cathedral suffered a devastating fire, which destroyed much of its roof and spire. Fortunately, much of the cathedral’s structure and many of its priceless artworks and relics were saved.

Visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is open to visitors every day of the year, except for major holidays. Admission to the cathedral is free, but there may be a long line to enter, especially during peak tourist season. The cathedral is also an active place of worship, so visitors should be respectful and quiet while inside.

When you enter Notre-Dame Cathedral, you will be struck by the sheer size and grandeur of the interior. The cathedral’s nave is 427 feet long, and its vaulted ceiling reaches a height of 115 feet. The stained glass windows are particularly beautiful, and they depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints.

One of the highlights of visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral is climbing the tower to see the famous gargoyles and chimeras up close. The climb is steep, and there are over 400 steps, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. You can see the entire city of Paris from the top of the tower, including the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River.

Notre-Dame Cathedral is also home to many priceless artworks and relics. The cathedral’s treasury contains some of the most important religious artifacts in France, including the Crown of Thorns, which is said to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. The cathedral also houses many beautiful paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.

Tips for Visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral

Arrive early in the morning to avoid long lines.
Dress appropriately for a place of worship, which means no shorts, bare shoulders, or revealing clothing.
Photography is allowed inside the cathedral, but be respectful of other visitors and do not use flash.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the cathedral.
Be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing stairs, as the cathedral is quite large and there are many steps to climb.

Conclusion

Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. Its stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and priceless artworks and relics make it one of the most important cultural and religious sites in France. Whether you are interested in history, art, or architecture, a visit to Notre-Dame Cathedral is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Paris.