In contrast to earlier Romanesque designs, the Notre Dame Cathedral exhibits a strong impact of naturalism in its sculptures and stained-glass windows. Its construction occurred during the Gothic era, making it one of the first Gothic churches.
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris started being built in the 12th century, but it took another 300 years for the building to be completed. It is currently one of the oldest and most well-known churches in France. The many different architectural styles that are present throughout the structure show how long it took to construct. Some portions show the Renaissance and Naturalism eras of building, although it is mostly French Gothic. These various styles enhance the distinctive and peculiar attractiveness of the structure.
The history of Notre-Dame de Paris
The most well-known Gothic cathedral from the Middle Ages is Notre-Dame de Paris, which stands out for its grandeur, age, and architectural interest. The ruins of two older churches, which were themselves preceded by a Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter, served as the foundation for Notre-Dame, which was built near the eastern extremity of the Île de la Cité.
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris started being built in the 12th century, but it took another 300 years for the building to be completed. It is currently one of the oldest and most well-known churches in France. The many different architectural styles that are present throughout the structure show how long it took to construct. There are portions that show the Renaissance and Naturalism eras of building, despite the fact that it is mostly French Gothic. The distinctive and peculiar attractiveness of the structure is enhanced by these various styles.
Describing the Notre Dame Cathedral’s history Without mentioning Joan of Arc, the peasant girl whose heroic exploits are well-documented in French history books, Paris would not be complete. She was incredibly courageous and said she received visions from God. Even though this poor girl lacked tangible possessions, she was rich in her character and spirituality.
She supported France in the wars against the English army thanks to her bravery and visions. The well-known historical figure Joan of Arc’s astute military strategies helped France defeat England in numerous battles. She was a strong advocate for the monarchy as well and inadvertently contributed to Charles VII’s coronation.
But Joan of Arc was taken prisoner by the Burundians, charged with heresy, and brutally executed by being burned at stake. But the courageous girl’s story did not end there. Joan of Arc was judged both innocent and a martyr on July 7, 1456. Pope Pius X had her beatified in Paris’ renowned Notre Dame church in 1909.
Some interesting Information about Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre Dame has 35 meters high, 48 meters broad, and 130 meters long. It has also a 10-meter diameter of rose windows. The pillars of the cathedral have a 5-meter diameter.
The power centers of France between the fourth and the fourteenth centuries were concentrated on the island of Paris, known as Ile de la Cite, where Notre Dame is situated.
The name of the renowned church is Notre Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris), The Notre Dame Cathedral, or occasionally just “Notre Dame.”
Use the Cite station on Line 4 of the Paris Metro to go to Notre Dame. Station Saint Michel on lines B and C of the RER.
The twin towers are 69 meters tall (387 steps). The 13-ton Emmanuel bell is located in the south tower.
Architect of Notre Dame Cathedral
France’s Notre Dame Cathedral is a prime example of Gothic design. Its building took two centuries to complete, starting in the middle of the 12th century. Modifications were done in the 18th century, and a significant restoration project was undertaken in the 19th century. The construction of Notre Dame Cathedral was divided into five main stages:
- Initially Building
- Additions and Modifications
- Continuous Changes and Improvements
- extensive restoration
- Restore and Rebuild
Opening hours of Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is open all the year.
- Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 6:45 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 8 AM to 7:45 PM
The summer from July and August, you can see the most visitors at Notre-Dame when tourists visit Paris. Here are some valuable suggestions to help you visit Notre-Dame without too many people and in peace:
Avoid attending Mass since there will always be more people because many churchgoers attend, along with interested outsiders who come to see the celebrations.
Avoid visiting during busy holy festivals like Christmas, Easter, All Saints’ Day, and the Assumption (August 15).
Try to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday because those days are typically less busy. The days with the most Masses are Sundays.
Where is Notre Dame Cathedral?
On the eastern side of Île de la Cité is a historic Catholic cathedral called The Cathedral (a small island in the Seine River). A Roman temple devoted to Jupiter and an early Christian Romanesque church were both demolished to make way for Notre Dame de Paris, historians claim.
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
Note:
Due to the recent fire that started on April 15, 2019, in the evening, the Notre Dame Cathedral is closed. Once Notre Dame Cathedral reopens, the information will be updated. Avoid getting close to the cathedral and the island till then.
