The History of the Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral rests in the heart of Paris. It lies on the Seine River, about 1.2 miles down from the Louvre, on the opposite bank. Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is nearly 900 years old and has an eclectic mix of architectural styles, artistic sculpture and designs. There are many Notre Dame Cathedrals throughout Europe, but Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral is arguably the most famous. This romantic and historical building was the setting for Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

The idea for Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral was conceptualized by the French bishop Maurice de Sully. Construction was begun in 1163, but the bishop did not live to see it finished. The cathedral took nearly 180 years to complete. Construction began with the choir, which was completed in 1183. The nave came next and that was completed in 1208. They west facade, the towers and the chapels came next, and the cathedral was adorned with many works of art, including the beautiful, stained-glass Rose Windows, of which there are three. Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral was finally finished in 1345. Read more of this article. Image Source.