Notre-Dame de Paris – A timeless beauty in the heart of Paris

Notre-Dame – pure magnificence

Notre-Dame de Paris, located on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement, is one of the world’s most famous cathedrals and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Construction of the cathedral began in 1163 and took almost 200 years to complete, making it a monument to medieval craftsmanship and religious dedication.

Notre-Dame has witnessed important historical events over the centuries, from the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte to Victor Hugo’s famous novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, which helped revive interest in the cathedral in the 19th century.

Experiences at Notre-Dame

The cathedral is now open to visitors after restoration following the devastating fire in 2019, and is a must-see in Paris. Here are some of the experiences you can enjoy:

• The architecture: Admire the impressive details of the cathedral’s facade, including the ornate sculptures and iconic gargoyles guarding the roof.
• The Gothic rose windows: The cathedral’s colorful stained glass windows, especially the three large rose windows, are among the most beautiful examples of Gothic art.
• The Towers: When the towers reopen, head up the 387 steps for spectacular views of Paris and a closer look at the famous gargoyles.
• Religious relics: Notre-Dame houses several sacred objects, including a thorn from Christ’s crown of thorns, which survived the fire.

Rebuilding after the fire in 2019

The tragic fire in April 2019 destroyed large parts of the cathedral roof and the iconic spire. Fortunately, the main structure, including the towers and rose windows, was saved. Reconstruction work has been ongoing since then, with the goal of reopening the cathedral by 2024. They almost succeeded – the cathedral reopened to the public in December 2024.

Practical information about Notre-Dame

• Address: Parvis Notre-Dame – Place Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
• Transportation: Nearest metro stations are Cité (line 4) and Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame (RER B and C).
• Opening hours: The cathedral is expected to reopen at the end of 2024, however the surrounding area is open to the public.
• Ticket prices: Admission to the main cathedral is usually free, while there may be an entrance fee to visit the towers and crypt.

3 nearby attractions at Notre-Dame

1. Sainte-Chapelle: Another Gothic gem on the Île de la Cité, known for its stunning stained glass windows.
2. Conciergerie: A former royal palace and prison where Marie-Antoinette was held captive during the French Revolution.
3. Pont Saint-Louis: A charming bridge connecting Île de la Cité with Île Saint-Louis, a quiet area filled with cafés and small shops.

Notre-Dame de Paris is more than just a cathedral – it’s part of the soul of Paris. Whether you visit for its history, architecture or spiritual significance, this iconic monument will leave you deeply impressed.

Link to Notre Dame’s official website

By Tommy Sverre – 2025