Why to visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral, along with the Eiffel Tower, is one of Paris' most recognised sites and is considered one of the best specimens of French Gothic architecture. It is located on the Ile de la Cite, an island in the River Seine. The cathedral is known for its magnificent stained glass art, which exemplifies the advances gained over the previous era of Romanesque architecture and sculpture. 

The stern front of Notre-Dame is adorned with a plethora of stone sculpture, particularly around the central portal, which is flanked by figures depicting The Last Judgment. The verticality of the twin towers (69 metres in height) is balanced by the horizontal banding of the ornamented galleries in the facade design.

The cathedral's transept portals are likewise beautifully decorated with architectural relief sculpture; the south entrance depicts scenes from Saint Stephen's life, as well as the lives of other local saints, while the decorations around the north door show Christ's infancy and the storey of Theophilus.

Because of the Cathedral's aroused attention, little stores and cafés in the neighbourhood experience a large influx of tourists. The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has a lot to offer, so make sure you're prepared for a memorable visit.

Special Tip

If you only want to look around Notre Dame Cathedral, there is no entrance price. Adults and children are both permitted free access. Visitors who want to access Notre Dame's Tower and Crypt, however, must pay EUR 10 to enter.

By Sparsh Kapoor