Definition
Notre-Dame de Paris is a medieval Catholic cathedral located on the Île de la Cité in the center of Paris, France. It is officially known as the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris (Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris) and serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Paris.
Overview
Construction of the cathedral began in 1163 under Bishop Maurice de Sully and continued for roughly two centuries, reaching its largely completed form in the mid‑14th century. Notre‑Dame is a landmark example of French Gothic architecture, celebrated for its sculptural decoration, stained‑glass windows, and innovations such as the use of flying buttresses. The building has played a central role in French religious, cultural, and political history, hosting coronations, royal weddings, and state ceremonies. In April 2019 a major fire caused the collapse of the spire and extensive damage to the roof; restoration work is ongoing, with the aim of reopening the cathedral to the public in the early 2020s.
Etymology / Origin
The name “Notre‑Dame” is French for “Our Lady,” a designation used for churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. “de Paris” simply indicates the cathedral’s location within the city of Paris. The term therefore translates as “Our Lady of Paris.”
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Architectural Style | Primarily French High Gothic; later additions exhibit Rayonnant and Flamboyant Gothic elements. |
| Plan | Cruciform layout with a nave, two side aisles, transept, and chevet (apse) surrounded by radiating chapels. |
| Dimensions | Length: ~130 m; Height of nave vault: ~33 m; Height of towers: ~69 m; Original spire (rebuilt after the 2019 fire) reached 96 m. |
| Key Features | • Twin west towers (added in the 13th century) • Rose windows, notably the north and south rose windows (13th century) • The “Gallery of Kings” on the façade • Statues of the twelve apostles on the façade (mostly 13th century) • The original wooden spire and bronze bell “Emmanuel” (destroyed in 2019) |
| Artworks | Stained‑glass windows (including the 13th‑century “Tree of Jesse”) Sculptural program depicting biblical scenes and saints. |
| Liturgical Role | Active place of worship for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Paris; regular Masses, sacraments, and special liturgical celebrations. |
| Conservation Status | Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Paris, Banks of the Seine" listing (1991). Ongoing restoration financed by French government, private donors, and public fundraising. |
Related Topics
- French Gothic Architecture – architectural movement exemplified by Notre‑Dame.
- Victor Hugo’s Notre‑Dame de Paris – the 1831 novel (English title: The Hunchback of Notre‑Dame) that popularized the cathedral in modern culture.
- Île de la Cité – the historic island in the Seine River where the cathedral stands.
- Archbishop of Paris – the cathedral’s ecclesiastical authority.
- 2019 Notre‑Dame fire – event leading to extensive damage and subsequent restoration.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France – Notre‑Dame is included in the “Paris, Banks of the Seine” listing.