Medieval Gothic cathedral on Île de la Cité, begun in 1163 and completed in 1345. The 2019 fire destroyed the spire and roof but spared the stone structure and rose windows. Restoration continues toward a planned 2024 reopening. Even under scaffolding, Notre-Dame remains the symbolic heart of Paris.
Location
Le Marais, Paris
Map
Insider Intel
The cathedral interior remains closed for restoration as of early 2026. Walk the exterior to appreciate the flying buttresses and facade sculptures. The view from Pont de l'Archevêché and Square Jean XXIII (behind the cathedral) shows the Gothic architecture at its most dramatic. Follow reopening announcements for access to the restored interior.
Check official sources for reopening status. When open, morning light through the rose windows is spectacular.
Construction began under Bishop Maurice de Sully in 1163 and took nearly two centuries. The cathedral was desecrated during the Revolution, then restored in the 19th century by Viollet-le-Duc (who added the destroyed spire). Victor Hugo's 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame sparked renewed interest in Gothic architecture and saved the building from demolition. The April 15, 2019 fire shocked the world — the oak roof framework (la forêt) dating to the 13th century was destroyed, but the stone vaults held. Restoration work continues with a target reopening in late 2024. Even closed, Notre-Dame's exterior remains one of the great achievements of Gothic architecture.