Notre Dame Cathedral travel, tours and Vacation packages

A short guide about Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris is one of the most striking Gothic cathedrals in the world and the most popular tourist attraction on the Ile de la Cite. Being a magnificent example of gothic architecture; its construction began in 1163 with Pope Alexander III laying down its foundation stone and was completed in 1345. An important historical and religious site; it was sacred to the Celts, Romans and Christians alike. Much of the cathedral’s religious imagery was damaged or destroyed during the French Revolution in 1790, so during the 19th century an extensive restoration project was completed, returning the cathedral to its former glorious state.

There are five bells in the Notre Dame Cathedral that were once rung manually, but now toll by electric motors. The great Bourdon Bell called ‘Emmanuel’ weighs just over 13 tons and is located in the South Tower; it is tolled to mark the hours of the day, various occasions and services. The other four bells in the North Tower are rung for various services and festivals. Tourists can climb these bell towers for a breathtaking view of Paris, and visually explore the details of the gargoyle sculptures. It is a bit of a climb, so one needs to allow a couple of hours and be reasonably good shape.

Other major attractions are the sculptures of Adam and Eve at the entrance, the statue of Saint Joan of Arc and the rose windows. Stories from the Bible are painted on the portals, ceilings, walls and the stained glass of the cathedral. It is also possible to visit the Crypte Archeologique under the Cathedral, where you can see the original foundations built 2,000 years ago by the Parisii, the Celtic tribe after which Paris is named.

As you browse through Tourabout’s catalogue of vacation packages to France, you’ll find that most tours to the Notre Dame Cathedral include a visit to the La Sainte Chapelle, built in 1248 by Louis IX and the Conciergerie - the gothic palace that later became a prison, housing Marie Antoinette and over 4,000 other prisoners during the Revolution. Most of these tours have guides chosen for their expert knowledge and passion, so create a shortlist of your vacation style, and click on the supplier of your choice for more detail.