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Notre Dame |
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A place of sanctuary and haunting beauty, the magnificent Gothic style Notre Dame Cathedral stands near the Seine River in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. The home of `Quasimodo` as described in Victor Hugo`s novel `The Hunchback of Notre Dame`, the Notre Dame Cathedral with its intricate interior design, religious artifacts, stained glass windows and famous gargoyles, gives visitors to Paris a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning architecture of this hallowed building.
Construction of the Notre Dame Cathedral began in the early 12th century under the guidance of Bishop Maurice de Sully and soon became a popular place of worship. While many of the Cathedral`s paintings and statues were torn down during the French Revolution, the interior was thankfully restored in the 19th century and continues to captivate all those who enter inside.
The Notre Dame Cathedral`s Gothic exterior is an attraction in itself which provides great photo opportunities as well. Those heading inside will find such striking features as a 19th century golden bronze cross, the 14th century `Our Lady of Paris` statue, a baroque choir, a 15th century bell and exquisite stained glass windows. Visitors heading up to the twin towers will be greeted by the sight of horrifyingly fascinating gargoyles, while Notre Dame Cathedral`s treasury is home to the `Crown of Thorns` believed to be the one thrust on Jesus` head before his crucifixion.
In order to help visitors to Paris get a clearer understanding of Notre Dame Cathedral`s history and architecture, tours are held on different days and in different languages. English tours are conducted on Wednesday and Thursday at noon (12 PM) and on Saturday at 2.30 PM.
Getting there / tickets
While the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is open to all free of charge, there is an admission fee for those looking to visit the towers or the treasury.
Metro Stops: Cite or St. Michel
RER Stop: St. Michel
Bus: Numbers 21, 24, 27, 38, 47, 85 or 96
Opening hours
The Notre Dame Cathedral is open daily from 7.45 AM - 6.45 PM (opening and closing times of towers and treasury vary)
Address
Notre Dame Cathedral
6 place du Parvis Notre Dame, 4e
75004 Paris
Tel: 01 42 34 56 10
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