Notre-Dame de Paris, Paris

The Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, also known as Notre-Dame, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that has towered over the Ile de la Cité in the heart of Paris for centuries. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the cathedral is not only a place of religious worship but also a witness to key events in French history.

Its distinctive twin towers, rising to a height of 69 meters, are visible from many points in the city and constitute one of the most recognizable silhouettes against the Parisian sky. The interior of the temple impresses with its stained glass windows, particularly the famous Rose Window, and the richly decorated main nave.

Notre-Dame Cathedral has witnessed many historical moments, including the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of the French in 1804. It is also well-known from literature, most notably through Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," which contributed to the increased interest in and preservation of this monument.

Unfortunately, on April 15, 2019, Notre-Dame was severely damaged in a fire that destroyed the roof and spire. Since then, reconstruction work has been underway to restore the cathedral to its former glory.