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Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the capital’s most iconic monuments. With its remarkable Gothic architecture, it attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year.
Located on Île de la Cité, it is a central point in the history and heritage of Paris.
A construction spanning several centuries
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame was built between 1163 and 1345, beginning under the reign of Louis VII.
This large-scale project spanned several generations, involving different master builders. This long timeline explains the richness and complexity of its architecture.
A cathedral transformed throughout history
Over the centuries, the building underwent numerous changes.
During the French Revolution, the cathedral was heavily damaged and vandalised, leaving it in a critical state.
In the 19th century, a major restoration campaign was launched.
The major role of Victor Hugo
The writer Victor Hugo played a decisive role in saving the cathedral through his novel Notre-Dame de Paris.
The book’s success raised public awareness and pushed the authorities to act.
King Louis-Philippe entrusted the restoration to two architects:
- Jean-Baptiste Lassus
- Eugène Viollet-le-Duc
After Lassus’s death in 1857, Viollet-le-Duc continued the work alone and restored much of the cathedral’s current appearance.
Continuous evolution to this day
The cathedral was spared during both World Wars.
In the 20th century, several works were carried out:
- renewal of the nave’s stained-glass windows
- restoration of the great organ
- cleaning of the western façade
- redevelopment of the liturgical spaces
In 2013, Notre-Dame celebrated its 850th anniversary, with new restoration projects.
A monument marked by the 2019 fire and its rebirth
On 15 April 2019, a major fire severely damaged the cathedral, causing the collapse of its spire and roof. A vast restoration project was undertaken, with a gradual reopening to the public in 2024, marking a new chapter in the monument’s history.
An essential site in the heart of Paris
With nearly 20 million visitors a year before the fire, Notre-Dame de Paris remains one of the most visited monuments in the world.
A visit fits perfectly into a discovery of:
- Île de la Cité
- the banks of the Seine
- Paris’s great monuments
An essential visit during your stay in Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris is an unmissable stop for understanding the history and identity of the capital.
Do explore our hotels in Paris to make the most of the city’s many cultural outings.
Getting there from your hotels in Paris
Easy access by metro
Stations: Cité, Saint-Michel
Walking access via the banks of the Seine
Practical information
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
6 Parvis Notre-Dame — Place Jean-Paul II — 75004 Paris
Phone: 01 42 34 56 10
Gradual reopening from 2024
Looking to extend the experience? New Hotel République welcomes you in Paris for a comfortable stay close to this must-see spot.
FAQ – Notre-Dame de Paris
Can you visit Notre-Dame de Paris now?
Gradual reopening is planned from 2024 following the restoration works.
How much time should I allow for the visit?
About 1 hour depending on crowds.
Why is the cathedral famous?
For its Gothic architecture and major historical role.
Which writer helped save it?
Victor Hugo, through his novel Notre-Dame de Paris.