5 Curious Facts About Notre Dame Cathedral

Last weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the recently renovated Notre Dame Cathedral. I had seen the grand inauguration on TV, which boasted the presence of numerous politicians, celebrities, and even royals like French President Emmanuel Macron, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, and famous actors like Marion Cotillard and Timothée Chalamet. While the TV broadcast was impressive, seeing the cathedral in person was a whole different experience. The intensity of the colors and the intricate details were far more uplifting and breathtaking than I remembered.

Many people have asked me about the waiting time, and I must say, even though I went at the worst possible time (Saturday afternoon, which is probably peak time), the queue moved surprisingly fast. It took me about 20 minutes to get inside.

Now, let’s dive into five curious facts about Notre Dame Cathedral, both from its rich past and its vibrant present!

*1. The Bells of Notre Dame*
Notre Dame’s bells are legendary, with the largest and most famous bell being Emmanuel, weighing over 13 tons. Emmanuel has been ringing since the 17th century and is typically only used on special occasions. Each of the bells has its own unique name and sound, adding to the cathedral’s enchanting character.

*2. As Gothic  as a Tattoo*
Notre Dame is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its construction starting in 1163 and completing in 1345. It features iconic elements like flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and stunning stained glass windows – that are so fashionable today, because of tattooes.

The famous rose windows, in particular, are a sight to behold, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors. Fun fact: Did you know that one of the original flying buttresses was nicknamed “The Ballet Dancer” due to its graceful curve? Talk about blending art with engineering.

*3. The Hunchback of Notre Dame*
Victor Hugo’s novel “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (originally “Notre-Dame de Paris”) played a crucial role in saving the cathedral. Published in 1831, the novel brought attention to the deteriorating state of the cathedral, leading to a major restoration project in the mid-19th century led by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. The Disney movie adaptation of the story further immortalized the cathedral in popular culture.

*4. A Musical Tribute (No, Not the Rock Band)*
In 1998, the Italian composer Riccardo Cocciante created the musical “Notre-Dame de Paris,” which became a huge success. The musical has been performed in multiple languages and countries, captivating audiences with its powerful music and dramatic storytelling. It’s a wonderful tribute to the cathedral and its timeless allure. Fun tidbit: Cocciante once said that creating the musical was like “building a cathedral of notes and lyrics”—a grand project indeed!

*5. The 2019 Fire and Restoration*
On April 15, 2019, a devastating fire broke out at Notre Dame, causing significant damage to the roof and spire. The world watched in horror as the flames engulfed the historic landmark. However, the response to the disaster was swift and overwhelming, with donations pouring in from around the globe to support the restoration efforts. The renovation project aimed to restore the cathedral to its former glory, with some modern touches, and it’s now more beautiful than ever.

Notre Dame Cathedral is more than just an architectural wonder; it’s a living testament to history, culture, and human resilience. Whether you’re admiring its Gothic splendor, enjoying the music inspired by its legacy, or reflecting on its remarkable restoration, Notre Dame continues to inspire awe and admiration.

Until next time, happy exploring!