The History of the Cathedral
The history of the Cathedral is closely linked to the history of France. Built in the 12th century, modified in the 18th century, and then restored in the 19th century, it is the symbol of Catholic worship in Paris over the centuries.
Before the Cathedral
In the 4th century, Clovis converted to Christianity. As the Frankish king, he made Paris his capital and developed Christian worship. A first cathedral, Saint-Étienne, was built on the Île de la Cité.The Builders
The first stone of the cathedral was laid in 1163 by Bishop Maurice de Sully. He undertook a colossal project in coordination with the best master masons of his time. Together, these builders envisioned a new religious art, which has been called "Gothic art" since the 16th century.Major Events
Closely linked to the history of France and Paris, the cathedral has hosted significant events attended by the most eminent political figures since its construction.The Architecture of the Cathedral
The construction of the Cathedral began in the mid-12th century and spanned two hundred years. It is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in France. Modifications were made in the 18th century, and a major restoration project was undertaken in the 19th century.
Interior Architecture
The interior architecture of the cathedral rises on three levels, illuminated by large stained glass windows. A double ambulatory is arranged around the nave. The Gothic style is characterized by its ribbed vaulting.The Portal of the Virgin
The Portal of the Virgin depicts, according to Church tradition, the death of Mary, her Assumption into Heaven, and her coronation as Queen of Heaven. It was installed around 1210-1220.The Stained Glass Windows
The stained glass windows of Notre-Dame are among the masterpieces of Gothic art. The art of stained glass is a hallmark of medieval architecture. They cover nearly a thousand square meters. Some are original, while others have been extensively restored.The Sculptures of the Cathedral
The exterior statuary of Notre-Dame was designed concurrently with the architecture of the Cathedral. It depicts episodes from Christian history. Inside, the statues were added over time.
Our Lady
From the 12th century, an altar dedicated to Mary was placed against the southeast pillar of the cathedral. This location has been a significant place of devotion since the Middle Ages. In the 19th century, Viollet-le-Duc installed a statue of the Virgin and Child, known since then as "Notre Dame de Paris."The Mausoleum of Count d’Harcourt
The funerary mausoleum of the Count of Harcourt, sculpted by Jean-Baptiste Pigalle, illustrates the countess's homage to her deceased husband.Statues of Saints
The statues of Saint Joan of Arc and Saint Thérèse of Lisieux are recent sculptures. Catholics hold a particular devotion to these two prominent figures of the Church.The Paintings of the Cathedral
The paintings preserved at Notre-Dame date from the 17th and 18th centuries. Commissioned by the cathedral's canons from the most illustrious Parisian painters, they testify to the artistic quality of religious painting in Paris at that time.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit
The May of 1634 painted by Jacques Blanchard illustrates the theme of Pentecost. According to the scriptures, fifty days after Easter, the spirit of God, symbolized by tongues of fire, descends upon the apostles.The Visitation
An ensemble of eight large paintings illustrating the Life of the Virgin was commissioned in the 18th century to decorate the choir of Notre-Dame. The Visitation, painted by Jean Jouvenet in 1716, was the most appreciated work of its time.Saint Thomas Aquinas, Fountain of Wisdom
This 17th-century painting reflects the fervor of Catholics towards Saint Thomas Aquinas. This Dominican studied and taught theology at the University of Paris in the mid-12th century. His writings, penned in Paris, are contemporary with the opening of Notre-Dame.The Music at Notre-Dame de Paris
Music at Notre-Dame is an integral part of worship and culture. Since the Middle Ages, singing has been mastered and polyphony invented here.
The Episcopal School
The music accompanies Christian worship. Since the 4th century, the episcopal school of Paris has taught children to sing for the liturgy. This school was highly renowned throughout the Middle Ages.The Contemporary Era
Sacred music regained its grandeur in the cathedral at the end of the 19th century following the restoration of the grand organ. Concerts were organized in the 20th century, outside of services, giving music, the choir, and the organ a dedicated and popular place.The Contemporary Organ
The Notre-Dame organ, modernized in the 20th century, still retains some pipes from the 15th century. It currently features five 56-note manuals, a 32-note pedalboard, 109 stops, 111 registers, and 7,952 pipes.The Art Objects of Notre-Dame
Over the centuries, artists and artisans have created true works of art for Notre-Dame de Paris, from papal cameos to the modern altar.