Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame is considered to be one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world
Paris's iconic Notre Dame Cathedral reopened its doors on December 7, 2024, following a devastating fire that nearly destroyed the beloved Gothic landmark on April 15, 2019. The blaze, which began in the early evening, ravaged the cathedral's roof and caused the collapse of its iconic spire. The exact cause of the fire was never determined.
The Restoration Effort
The restoration effort has been monumental. Over the past five years, an estimated €700 million has been poured into the project, with donations from well over 300,000 contributors across 150 nations. The painstaking work involved 2,000 skilled artisans, including sculptors, glassmakers, and carpenters, who meticulously cleaned, repaired, and rebuilt various elements of the cathedral.
This is not the first time the Notre Dame has been damaged. It was also ravaged during the French Revolution, and was beautifully restored after that as well. It is a shame that the statues and stained glass windows destroyed during that time are lost forever.
Visiting the Notre Dame
As Notre Dame prepares to welcome visitors once again, the reopening will be marked by a series of special masses and events throughout December. While the restoration has slightly altered the cathedral's mystical atmosphere, those involved believe the work will preserve Notre Dame's integrity for generations to come.
Visitors to Paris can also enjoy seeing the outside of this magnificent structure from many vantage points on the surrounding streets and bridges and from the left bank of the Seine.
Interesting Facts and History
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a name that most people will immediately recognize. Notre Dame de Paris, meaning Our Lady of Paris, is its full name. The cathedral was built in the Gothic style and, up until the fire in April of 2019, it was actively used as a Roman Catholic church. It is considered by many to be one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world.
The Notre Dame received much notoriety from the famous novel 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' by renowned author Victor Hugo which was published in 1831. Today it attracts over 13 million visitors and pilgrims each year. In holding with the view that worshiping the Lord should be open to all, there is no entrance fee to the cathedral. Visitors are asked to dress appropriately and to be as quiet as possible so as not to disturb those who come to worship in its hallowed halls.
A number of significant events have taken place in the Notre Dame Cathedral. Some of those events include the coronation of Henry VI as king of France, the marriage of James V of Scotland to Madeleine of France, the coronation of Napoleon I, as well as the beautification and canonization of Joan of Arc.
The Notre Dame Cathedral was built on the exact site of the first Parisian Christian church, Saint Etienne basilica. The basilica was built on the site of a Roman temple to Jupiter. Thus the Notre Dame Cathedral symbolizes the victory of Christianity over the pagan Roman gods to some pilgrims.
Nearby attractions: Sainte Chapelle and The Latin Quarter
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: No.Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
Phone: 01 42 34 56 10
Official Website: Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral Reviews
Rated out of 5
Since it was not open due construction due to a fire. I did not feel it was worth going. I did see the outside it is very detailed and very unique. Feel uncultured when I mistake it for other cathedrals close but once I saw it, it is one of the most detailed structures ever. So many statues and markings. It is one of the iconic places in Paris to visit. So my suggestion is if after all the fencing is taken down after construction to walk around the building it is very interesting.
Muhammed Uzair Osman - a week ago
When we reached here in the evening there was a big queue to enter inside so we had no choice but to see from outside. The cathedral was beautiful piece of architecture. There was a lovely garden in the front where one can sit and enjoy excellent view.
This review is before fire incident.
Balkrishna Shroff - in the last week
Paris’ famous cathedral. Due to the fire in 2019, the church is still undergoing restoration work. For now, there is a gallery erected to the side where you can view the front part of the building. There are some monuments in the yard.
The cathedral is close to several other attractions and is located next to the river.
My first visit to the inside of the church was in 1999. I can’t wait to visit again hopefully when the cathedral will be open to the public. It is free to access the gallery/stand.
Legends l - 2 weeks ago
Most of the pictures taken after 2019 will include Tower Cranes that are on site helping in the restoration of the structure due to the devasting fire of that year. Although access is very limited, tourist still flood to the area in order to at least capture a photo of what remains. Luckily the two main columns and the front window are still standing tall and can be seen clearly.
Mike Day - a week ago
A Timeless Beauty, Even During Renovation
The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris remains one of the most enchanting and impressive landmarks, even though it is currently closed for renovations following the fire in 2019. The cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details continue to captivate visitors from the outside, making it a worthwhile sight to behold.
Visiting this iconic site allows you to feel the history and charm of Paris. While entry to the interior is not possible, tourists can still enjoy the views and take photos from the surrounding areas, which remain vibrant and lively, reflecting the enduring spirit of this historic landmark.
Ming Assawamahasakda - 2 months ago
Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| M4 | Saint-Michel | 7 minutes |
| M10 | Cluny - La Sorbonne | 6 minutes |
| M1, 7, 11, or 14 | Châtelet | 12 minutes |
| RER B or C | Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame | 6 minutes |
How to get to Notre Dame Cathedral by Metro / RER
By Metro: From Metro Line 4 exit at Saint-Michel Station and cross the road to your right and walk north straight across the Saint-Michel Bridge. You will already see the Notre Dame to your right as you are crossing the bridge. From Metro Line 1,7,11, or 14 exit at Châtelet Station and follow Rue Saint-Denis south and cross the bridge over the Seine. Keep walking south on Blvd du Palais and go left just before the next bridge. The Notre Dame is straight ahead. From Cluny - La Sorbonne Station exit and go east to Rue Saint-Jacques; then left (north)continuing across the bridge.
By RER: Take RER B or C to Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame Station and cross the Saint-Michel Bridge. Notre Dame is visible on your right.
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Photo Gallery
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View of the Notre Dame from the River Seine cc licensed photo by Lynette Chea -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr
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