Notre-Dame Cathedral

Overview

Notre-Dame de Paris is an undisputed masterpiece of French Gothic architecture sitting gracefully on the Île de la Cité. World-famous for its flying buttresses and gargoyles, it remains the spiritual and historical heart of France.

Highlights

• The Rose Windows: Three magnificent, enormous stained-glass windows dating back to the 13th century.
• The Facade: The astonishingly detailed, perfectly proportioned western front featuring the Gallery of Kings.
• Point Zéro: Look for the bronze star embedded in the plaza outside—the official center point from which all distances in France are measured.

History

Construction began in 1163 and took nearly 200 years to complete. It famously survived the French Revolution, inspired Victor Hugo's classic novel, and hosted Napoleon's coronation. On April 15, 2019, a devastating fire destroyed its roof and spire, leading to a monumental, globally watched restoration effort. The cathedral triumphantly reopened to the public on December 8, 2024.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: Admission to the cathedral is free, though a reservation is recommended to avoid queues.
• The Towers: Reopened in September 2025, tickets are required for the tower climb.
• Duration: 1 hour.