Historical background and construction process

Notre Dame de Paris was built in 1163 and was ordered by King Louis VII of France to commemorate the Virgin Mary. The entire construction process took about 200 years and was finally completed in 1345. During the construction process, the church adopted the iconic features of Gothic architecture such as pointed arches, flying buttresses and rose windows, making Notre Dame de Paris a model of Gothic architecture.

In the long history, Notre Dame de Paris has undergone many reconstructions and restorations. In the mid-16th century, religious wars broke out, and the Huguenots destroyed many icons. During the French Revolution in 1793, the statues in the church were knocked down or beheaded, and it was also transformed into a temple of reason, a wine warehouse, etc. In 1830, the July Revolution broke out in France, the stained glass windows were destroyed, and the archdiocese was burned down. Later, at the call of Hugo, King Louis Philippe ordered a reconstruction. After the Franco-Prussian War in 1871, the Paris Commune Movement broke out, and Notre Dame de Paris was almost burned down. During World War I, the German army bombarded Paris, and the municipal authorities took sandbags to protect it from disaster. During World War II, the German army occupied Paris, and Notre Dame de Paris was facing the crisis of destruction. Fortunately, the garrison commander delayed the blasting plan. Although it was hit by stray bullets in the battle to liberate Paris, the loss was not serious.

However, on April 15, 2019, Notre Dame de Paris suffered a serious fire, the spire of the back courtyard collapsed, and two-thirds of the roof was burned, but the main structure and two towers survived. Since then, the French government has raised more than 1 billion euros for restoration, which was completed in December 2024 and reopened to the public on December 8.

Architectural style and features

Notre Dame de Paris is a typical Gothic building, famous for its towering spires, exquisite rose windows and complex flying buttresses. The interior of the church is open and well-lit. The stained glass windows and exquisite sculptures create a mysterious and solemn atmosphere, making people feel as if they are in a dreamlike art world.

There are three gates on the front of the church, namely "Notre Dame Gate", "Judgment Gate" and "Saint Anne Gate". Among them, "Notre Dame Gate" is the most spectacular, with a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus, as well as many angels and saints carved on the door. The interior of the church is full of exquisite sculptures and murals, the most famous of which is the statue of the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child, known as "Notre Dame de Paris".

In addition, the church also has many stained glass windows, the most famous of which is the rose window. With their bright colors and biblical scenes, these glass windows are masterpieces of medieval stained glass art as visual narratives of religious stories and doctrines.

Visit Guide

Opening Hours

The main building of the cathedral: Monday to Friday 8:00-18:45; Saturday and Sunday 8:00-19:45.

Church side tower (bell tower): opening hours may vary, please check in advance.

Church museum and crypt: also have their own opening hours, please check in advance.

Ticket Information

The main building of the cathedral: free to visit.

Church side tower (bell tower): 8 euros/person for adults, 5 euros for 18-25 years old, free for under 17 years old.

Church museum: 3 euros/person.

Crypt: 4 euros/person, free for under 13 years old, 3 euros for over 60 years old or unemployed, 2 euros for 13-18 years old.

Reservation method

Tourists can make reservations for visits through the official website of Notre Dame de Paris. Go directly to Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris, click the "Discover" button, and then select "Book your visit" to make an appointment.

The visiting hours for individual tourists are different during weekdays and weekends. Please choose a suitable visiting time according to your schedule.

Visiting precautions

Please respect the religious atmosphere and cultural relics in the church. Do not make loud noises, take pictures or touch the exhibits.

Dress appropriately and do not enter the church in revealing or overly casual clothes.

Follow the rules and instructions in the church to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

Travel tips

Transportation

Notre-Dame de Paris is located in the city center and has convenient transportation. You can take the subway, bus or taxi to get there.

If you choose to drive there, please pay attention to the parking restrictions and fees in the center of Paris.

Dining recommendations

There are many restaurants and snack bars in the center of Paris. You can choose a suitable restaurant to eat according to your taste and budget.

Try some authentic French food, such as baguette, cheese, foie gras, etc.

Shopping suggestions

Paris is a famous shopping paradise. You can buy a variety of fashion goods and souvenirs in the shops and department stores in the city center.

Take care to protect your belongings and avoid losing them in crowded places.

Safety Tips

When visiting the center of Paris, please take care to keep your belongings and documents.

Avoid walking alone or going to remote places at night.

Notre Dame de Paris is a Gothic church with a profound historical background and unique architectural style. It is also one of the landmark buildings in Paris, France. Through the introduction of this guide, I believe you have a deeper understanding of Notre Dame de Paris. When planning your itinerary, please arrange the order and time of the visit according to your interests and time. I wish you a pleasant and unforgettable journey at Notre Dame de Paris!