As an American who leads quarterly tours in Paris, I have the joy of introducing people to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—Notre Dame Cathedral. This grand medieval structure isn’t just a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture; it’s a treasure trove of history, art, and intriguing stories. Let’s look into the fascinating world of Notre Dame de Paris.
A Brief History
Notre Dame de Paris, which translates to “Our Lady of Paris,” began its story over 850 years ago. The first stone was laid in 1163, in the presence of King Louis VII and Pope Alexander III. It took nearly 200 years to complete, with generations of Parisians witnessing its slow rise against the city’s skyline. Its completion around 1345 marked a new era for the city, with the cathedral becoming a symbol of Paris itself.
Architectural Wonders
Notre Dame is famed for its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture. When I guide my groups around the cathedral, I love to point out the flying buttresses, those arched exterior supports that are not just functional but beautifully intricate. They allow the walls to be thinner and the windows larger, which floods the interior with natural light—a novel feature at the time it was built.
The cathedral’s two towers rise 226 feet high and offer a panoramic view of Paris that is worth the 422-step climb. No elevator here—just old-fashioned stone steps! Each tower houses bells, including the great bourdon bell, named Emmanuel. It weighs over 13 tons and its deep toll can be heard across the city.
The Rose Windows
The stained glass rose windows are among the most celebrated features of Notre Dame. These stunning works of art date back to the 13th century and are a spectacle of color and storytelling. The south rose window, showcasing scenes from the New Testament, is particularly striking when the sunlight catches it just right, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that illuminate the nave.
Fascinating Sculptures
As we walk around the exterior, the gallery of chimeras and gargoyles always captures everyone’s attention. These aren’t just decorative elements; gargoyles serve a practical purpose as rain spouts, protecting the cathedral’s masonry from erosion. The chimeras, mythical creatures added during the 19th-century restoration, are purely ornamental and include the famous “Stryga” or “spitting gargoyle.”
A Phoenix from the Ashes
One of the most recent and dramatic chapters in Notre Dame’s history is its near destruction by fire on April 15, 2019. This event shocked the world and led to an outpouring of support for its restoration. During the fire, the spire and much of the roof collapsed, but thankfully, the main structure and many precious relics were saved. The restoration efforts are ongoing, with a commitment to preserve as much of the original craftsmanship as possible.
Art and Relics
Inside, Notre Dame houses several invaluable relics and works of art. The most revered is the Crown of Thorns, believed by many to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. The cathedral also holds a fragment of the True Cross and one of the Holy Nails.
Cultural Impact
Notre Dame has also been a muse for numerous artists and writers. Most notably, it is the setting for Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel, “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame,” which played a significant role in raising awareness about the cathedral’s decaying state in the 19th century and led to major restorations. The story of Quasimodo and Esmeralda has since inspired several films, plays, and musicals, further cementing Notre Dame’s place in popular culture.
A Living Monument
What makes Notre Dame truly special is that it remains a functioning church. It’s not just a historical monument to admire but a vibrant place of worship and community. Masses, weddings, and other religious ceremonies are still held here, continuing a tradition that has lasted for centuries.
Continuing our journey around Notre Dame, let’s explore some lesser-known trivia that adds even more depth to this historic cathedral that people love to hear about on my tours.
Hidden Secrets
Beneath Notre Dame’s surface lies a crypt, known as the Crypte archéologique de l’île de la Cité. This underground museum houses ruins dating back to Roman times, showcasing the layers of history that Paris is built upon. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, from ancient Roman settlements to the 19th-century Haussmannian renovations.
Architectural Innovations
Notre Dame was one of the first buildings in the world to use the flying buttress (arched exterior supports). The architects of Notre Dame originally constructed the walls to be too thin to stand alone, and as the building began to show signs of stress, they were forced to innovate. This architectural technique not only supported the structure but also allowed for the installation of large, stained glass windows that are now synonymous with Gothic architecture.
The Forest in the Roof
The roof of Notre Dame, often referred to as “the Forest,” was made from beams each made from an individual tree. Over 1,300 oak trees were cut down, some of which were likely 300-400 years old at the time of construction. This vast collection of timbers, intricately linked to form the roof, was one of the parts of the cathedral most damaged during the 2019 fire.
Musical Heritage
Notre Dame has a rich musical history with its renowned organ and choir. The Great Organ, which dates back to medieval times, has been modified over centuries and contains some 8,000 pipes. It was played during daily services and has been a key feature in the liturgical life of the cathedral. Miraculously, the organ survived the 2019 fire relatively unscathed.
Historic Events
Throughout history, Notre Dame has been the site of many significant events. In 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte crowned himself emperor in a lavish ceremony inside the cathedral. It also hosted the beatification of Joan of Arc in 1909, adding to its legacy as a central stage for major historical moments in France.
The Bells
The bells of Notre Dame, each named, have their own stories. The largest, Emmanuel, is known for its incredible tonal purity. Cast in 1681, it has rung through many of the most pivotal moments in French history, including the end of World War II and the annual celebration of Liberation Day.
A Symbol of Resilience
Following the fire, the image of the Notre Dame’s spire falling was broadcasted around the world, becoming a poignant symbol of loss. However, the global outpouring of grief and subsequent donations for restoration have underscored the cathedral’s place in the hearts of people across the globe, symbolizing hope and renewal.
These trivia points not only highlight Notre Dame’s historical significance but also its deep cultural and emotional resonance with people around the world. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience, continuing to inspire awe and wonder in all who visit or learn about its storied walls. Join me next time as we uncover more layers of Paris’s beloved Notre Dame!
Visiting Notre Dame
If you’re planning to visit, note that while the interior is currently closed for restoration, you can still admire its magnificent facade, attend masses held in the square, and visit the nearby archaeological crypt to explore historical remnants found beneath the square.
This is the essence of Notre Dame, a symbol of resilience and beauty. Every corner tells a story, every sculpture speaks a thousand words, and its ongoing restoration reminds us of the enduring human spirit to preserve our heritage for future generations. Join me next time for another segment of our tour through Paris’s heart and history.
