This week’s news of the iconic Notre Dame cathedral in Paris going up in flames was deeply upsetting, especially when you consider how old and indispensable the cathedral is to the city’s identity. Aside from the Eiffel Tower, the cathedral’s flying buttresses and placement on the river is about as “Paris” as you can get.
Construction started in 1160, and took until 1350 for completion, culminating in the very best example of French Gothic architecture anywhere.
The cathedral survived multiple world wars and countless other world events, and has become one of Paris’ most visited attractions, with over 12 million visitors yearly.
See the spire topple in a tower of flame is tragic, though we are hopeful that the beautiful cathedral will be entirely rebuilt, and the city of lights will welcome its beloved Notre Dame back in short order. Below are some historical images of the cathedral, along with images of the cathedral in its prime.
The horrible fire that started April 15, 2019.
Ongoing imagery of the cathedral aflame. Scaffolding can be seen, as a partial restoration was under way, and probable cause of the fire.
A look at the Notre Dame, at the end of the 19th century.
The coronation of Napoleon, in 1807, painted by Jacques-Louis David
The Notre Dame is best known for its huge flying buttresses and enormous rose windows. It’s considered the best example of French Gothic architecture.
Perched on the banks of the Seine, the iconic cathedral withstood multiple world wars.
Known for the iconic gargoyles and chimera that grace the sides of the cathedral.
Many coronations and countless services have been held in the beautiful interior.
We are hopeful that the cathedral will be rebuilt to exacting standards, preserving as much history as possible.
Eager to see the flying buttresses fly once more.
[…] the dramatic fire that Paris’ famed Notre Dame Cathedral sustained recently, people have wondered what the rebuilding effort will look […]