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Notrredame Notre Dame The famous cathedral in Paris CATHÉDRALE DE NOTRE-DAME If possible you should come to see Notre-Dame at sunset. Inside, of the three giant medallions warming the austere cathedral, the north rose window in the transept, from the mid-13th century, is best. But if you can't make it at sunset, that's okay too. Whenever you visit you're going to be impressed by this hallmark of the gothic era and a symbol of Paris today. Notre-Dame is the heart of Paris and even of the nation itself: Distances from the city to all parts of France are calculated from a spot at the far end of place du Parvis, in front of the cathedral, where a circular bronze plaque marks Kilomètre Zéro. Founded in the 12th century by the bishop of Paris, Notre-Dame has grown over the years, changing as Paris has changed. The histories of Paris and Notre-Dame are inseparable. Many prayed here before going off to fight in the Crusades. The revolutionaries who destroyed the Galerie des Rois and converted the building into a secular temple didn't spare "Our Lady of Paris." Later, Napoleon crowned himself emperor here. And as you walk through the towering structure or view it from the outside you get the sense that important things have happened here. On any tour make sure to check out the three portals depicting the Coronation of the Virgin, the Last Judgement, and several scenes from the New Testament. The gargoyles adorning the roof will send you right back to the days of Victor Hugo and his Hunchback of Notre Dame. Finally the memorial to those murdered during the holocaust is a sombre and meaningful experience. |