In This Story: Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame de Paris, meaning “Our Lady of Paris”, referred to simply as Notre-Dame, is a medieval Catholic cathedral in Paris. The cathedral is considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. Notre Dame is also notable for its three pipe organs, one of which is historic; and its immense church bells.
The cathedral’s construction began in 1163 and was largely complete by 1260, though it was modified frequently in the following centuries. In the 1790s, Notre-Dame suffered desecration during the French Revolution; much of its religious imagery was damaged or destroyed.
Some of the most important relics in Christendom, including the Crown of Thorns, a sliver of the true cross and a nail from the true cross, are preserved at Notre-Dame.
While undergoing renovation and restoration, the roof of Notre-Dame caught fire on the evening of 15 April 2019. The government of France hopes the reconstruction can be completed by Spring 2024, in time for the opening of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.