Paris attracts millions of tourists every year because of its iconic landmarks and attractions. Notre Dame Cathedral may be one of the most popular landmarks in Paris besides the Eiffel Tower. It's 850 years of history makes the pilgrimage to Paris even more enlightening.
Every year 13 million visitors from all over the world line up to enter its portals. Set in the historical heart of Paris, the Gothic Cathedral sits in the middle of the Seine River on a ship-shaped island known as Île de la Cité. It covers the length of ten streets and width of five streets, so you can imagine what treasure it holds insides its stone walls.
The cathedral is home to the relics, including a piece of the cross Jesus was crucified on and a piece of the Crown of Thorns. One of the greatest masterpieces of Christianity are the three rose windows dedicated to the messages of the New Testament.
Dominating the top spires of the cathedral are copper statues of the twelve apostles. And, a climb to the top of Notre Dame will offer an incredible 360° view of the City of Lights: the Latin Quarter, Hotel de Ville, the Seine, as well as the gardens of the cathedral.
From stirring memories of Victor Hugo's Hunchback of Notre Dame to the awesome wonder of how the faith of so many built an astonishing masterpiece of Christianity, Notre Dame is a must-see for pilgrims, art lovers, history buffs, architecture admirers, and archaeologists.
Since the April 15, 2019 fire, Notre Dame is closed and under reconstruction.
Magnifique!