Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is a Gothic Christian church located in the heart of Paris, the capital of the French Republic. It sits on the Île de la Cité in the Seine River, facing the Paris City Hall and the Louvre Museum across the water.

Construction of Notre-Dame began on March 23, 1163, at the behest of Maurice de Sully, the Archbishop of Paris. The building process spanned over 180 years, concluding in 1345. Notre-Dame is not merely a religious edifice but also a cultural and artistic treasure, housing numerous artistic masterpieces from the 13th to the 17th centuries.

The cathedral exemplifies Gothic architectural style, featuring a long, horseshoe-shaped Latin cross, measuring approximately 127 meters in length, 48 meters in width, and reaching a height of 96 meters. The façade boasts twin towers, while a massive rose window adorns the main entrance. The interior comprises five naves, including a central nave flanked by two pairs of side aisles, with the altar positioned at the apex of the cross.

Notre-Dame is not only the principal Catholic cathedral of France but also a symbol of French history and culture. It has witnessed the historical transformations of Paris and embodies humanity’s yearning for a better life. Today, Notre-Dame attracts countless visitors from around the world, drawn to its unique charm. However, a devastating fire on April 15, 2019, severely damaged the roof and spire; restoration efforts are currently underway.