I went looking for the Hunchback today but he was on strike – a typical event here in France. I did find his hideout and it is a breath taking structure both inside and out.
Notre Dame de Paris is one of the first Gothic cathedrals and is among the first buildings in the world to use the flying buttress. Construction began in 1163 and was completed around 1345. It sits on an island surrounded by the Seine River and is of the most visited attractions in Paris outside the Eiffel Tower. I was surprised to find admission was free and that you have full access to the ground floor even when normal mass if going on. You just had to be quiet. I have visited the cathedral several times, since it is in the center of one of the best areas in Paris, and you pass it frequently. Basically I usual need a nice place to sit down for a while and what better then a 750 cathedral. One of those visits they were playing the organ. I would love to hear an organ recital in this cathedral.
Seine River split around the island (stolen from the web)
Ariel view (stolen from the web)
Front plaza.
Above the main center door.
Side view.
Rear view.
Other side view.
Looking up from the front.
Center hall.
Stained glass.
Stained glass.
Stained glass.
Model of the cathedral.
Sculpture lining the entire ceiling rim.