Why Notre Dame Cathedral In Paris Is A Must-Visit

Introducing the grandeur: Notre Dame in Paris

The Notre Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris) cathedral is one of the must-visit places in Paris, known for its architectural style, rich history, antiquity and is considered as the symbol of worship France. It is listed as the UNESCO heritage site in the year 1991. The construction of the cathedral began in the 12the century and was completed in the 14th. Styled in Gothic, the religious structure is intricately designed by the best of the architects is about 856 years old. In 2018, it was celebrated as the most visited monument of the year. Even by gazing at the Notre Dame’s outstanding towers, stained glass, and statuary you will be breath taken. Located in the city centre, famously called the Ile de Ila Cité, which divides Paris to left and right. The Ile de Ila Cité is surrounded by the gorgeous Seine river other famous city attractions. The important landmark is also the measurement reference, just in front of the church, there is a tiny plate engraved, called as the Point zero of french roads, where all distances in Paris are measured from!

What’s the best time to visit?

The monument is on the must-visit list when you are in Paris, and hence one can expect it to be crowded every day. It is generally recommended to visit the Notre Dame between October to March because this marks offseason in Paris. Weekends always crowded and hence its better you avoid visiting the church. Yet, weekdays can be the best choice, if you are an early riser, you have an added advantage. You can drop by the church in the mornings, it is quieter than afternoons and evenings. Post which, you can proceed to visit the neighbourhood monuments as well.

The history behind Notre Dame

The church was conceived in the 12th century and the construction slowly began overlooking the Seine river, welcoming the travellers as they arrive. The city’s top architects started designing this architectural marvel.  The Church thus became a high place of worship. The population of Paris doubled by the 14th century, intricate carvings received attention all over the country. The Cathedral was hailed as the prime model of religious architecture. But at the time of the French revolution, the monument suffered major damages. Many statues lost their heads and the church was turned to a bread store. Between 1845 and 1870, the last phase of restoration took place and several damages were repaired. With the help of leading architects, the construction was completed. But the world will no forget what happened on  15 April 2019, a fire broke out in the Cathedral’s spire, damaging the roof. Intense restoration work began later to restore the damaged roof so that the Church can begin its normal functioning.

The highlights of the Cathedral: What not to miss?

The design of Notre Dame’s outstanding towers, stained glass, and spires will take your breathe away. When you are at the monument, you can dig deep into the fascinating history of the at the below-ground archaeological crypt. Few of the several eye-catching highlights in the monument are here

• Climb the North tower to get a different perspective of Paris, its famously called the Gargoyle’s perspective of Paris.
  
• The distinct facade is beautifully designed with intricate carving,  truly its the epitome of craftmanship of the Medieval times.
  
• Designed by the famous architect Georges-Eugène Haussmann, from Notre Dame’s plaza, you can view all the three elaborately-decorated portals.
  
• The other fascinating aspect of the Cathedral are the three stained-glass windows in the interiors.

More than this there are many antiques in the display for the viewers and each of it has a unique, amazing story.

If you are visiting the Paris city, Notre Dame Cathedral is a must-visit. You can discover the fascinating beauty of the Cathedral and enjoy unparalleled views of the city. In spite of several restoration activities and the recent fire that broke out, the architectural marvel still amazes everyone in its own style! So, Do you want to travel to Paris, We at Pickyourtrail will help you plan an amazing holiday?