Notre Dame Cathedral Paris History including Joan of Arc

Being one of the oldest and most imposing cathedrals in France, the Notre Dame cathedral Paris‘s construction started in the 12th century and was finally finished 300 years later. Having mainly a French Gothic architecture, but also influenced by the times during the construction (Renaissance, Naturalism); it has a unique and fascinating beauty through its architecture, painting and strength, considering it survived over so many years.

During the French Revolution, the Cathedral of Notre Dame suffered lots of damage, but it was restored by a talented engineer and kept its fame. Having symmetrical, powerful beauty, this must-see of Paris has witnessed a lot of important ceremonies for Christianity and the history of nations. Because of that, people from all over the world, no matter what beliefs they have, come to visit it and are stunned by its grace.

There is the most famous story of the peasant girl in the history books of France who was very brave and claimed that she had visions from God. This poor girl had spiritual and character richness even though she had no material goods. By being courageous, she helped France in the battles against the English troops. While using the wise military tactics of Joan of Arc, the well known heroine, France won lots of fights against England. She also was a great supporter of the monarchy; she is indirectly the reason why Charles VII was crowned. However, Joan of Arc was captured by the Burundians’, accused of heresy and burned at the stake. But this was not the end of the brave girl. On the 7 July 1456, Joan of Arc was declared innocent and a martyr. In 1909 she was beatified in the famous Notre Dame cathedral in Paris by Pope Pius X.

Besides the memories of a national heroine, the Cathedral of Notre Dame has a rich treasury consisting of paintings, furniture and other precious pieces with Neo-Gothic design. For a small amount of money, tourists can view these items of the church and attending the Masses are free. Five times per day there are Masses held and many Christians attend them.

Another nice thing about the Notre Dame Cathedral is the surrounding magnificent Parisian Hotels from which you can see a full view of the beautiful cathedral.

Every famous building has a story, a legend hidden in it, which fascinates people. And in the case of the Notre Dame Cathedral, it is the story of the hunchback who was the inspiration for movies and cartoons (known as “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”. Nevertheless, the most important factor that leads to the worldwide fame of this Cathedral is its French Gothic architecture, an example of architecture perfection.

Daniel Christian has visited Paris several times and writes for parisattractions.org

Notre Dame Cathedral Hotels