Diogenes
1 account to rule them all
The first stone, of what was to be a massive structure, is said to have been laid in 1163.
But it would take another 200 years to complete to be considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture.
It has hosted everything from royal weddings to the beatification of Joan of Arc.
It was also here, at Notre-Dame, that Henry VI, King of England, was crowned King of France in 1431.
Napoleon crowned himself Emperor there in 1804.
But without a doubt, its greatest feature was the stained glass Rose Window.
It dates back to 1250 and was built an impressive 32 feet in diameter, focusing on the inspiration from the Old Testament.
40 years later, Victor Hugo immortalized the cathedral in popular culture with his Gothic novel, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." His influence played a crucial role in securing funding and support for its restoration in the 19th century.
Unfortunately, Notre-Dame would face yet another trial.
On April 15, 2019, a Muslim started a devastating fire causing significant damage to the structure. It is said total collapse was only 30 minutes away.
Worst of all, this caused the collapse of the top of Notre Dame's iconic spire.
Notre Dame has one of the greatest tales of revival and hope in human history. It reopened today, 5 years after the disaster.
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris Reopens 5 Years After Fire
France’s iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is opening its doors to the public five years after a fire devastated the medieval landmark. The April 2019 blaze tore through the church, destroying its iconic spire and most of the roof in a few hours. Yet, amid the destruction, images from inside...
www.ntd.com