Notre Dame de Paris, known as simply Notre Dame, is one of the most iconic landmarks in France. Situated in the heart of Paris on the Île de la Cité, this stunning cathedral is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the City of Light.
But what exactly is Notre Dame famous for? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of Notre Dame
Notre Dame was built in the 12th century and took almost 200 years to complete. It was designed by Maurice de Sully, the Bishop of Paris at the time, who wanted to create a grand cathedral that would rival those found in other major European cities.
The cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. It has survived wars and revolutions over the centuries and has become an important part of French history and culture.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
One reason why Notre Dame is so famous is because of Victor Hugo’s novel, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The novel was published in 1831 and tells the story of Quasimodo, a deaf bell-ringer who lived in the cathedral’s bell tower.
The book was an instant success and helped to popularize Notre Dame around the world. It also brought attention to the cathedral’s unique architecture and its importance as a symbol of French culture.
The Bells
Notre Dame is home to ten bells that are rung during special occasions such as Christmas and Easter. The most famous bell is known as Emmanuel and weighs over 13 tons. It was cast in 1681 and has been rung for important events such as coronations and funerals.
The Rose Windows
Another reason why Notre Dame is so famous is because of its stunning rose windows. These windows are made up of intricate stained glass designs and are located on the north, south, and west facades of the cathedral.
The most famous rose window is located on the south facade and is known as the “Rose Window of Notre Dame.” It measures over 13 meters in diameter and depicts scenes from the New Testament.
The Fire
In April 2019, Notre Dame suffered a devastating fire that destroyed much of its roof and spire. The world watched in horror as flames engulfed the iconic cathedral, but thankfully, many of its treasures were saved.
The fire brought attention to Notre Dame once again and sparked an outpouring of support from people around the world who wanted to help with its restoration.
Conclusion
Notre Dame de Paris is famous for many reasons – its history, architecture, literature, art, and more. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful buildings, Notre Dame is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe.