The history of the internationally praised marvel of Gothic architecture of the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral had begun long before Pope Alexander III laid its foundation stone in 1163. According to archaeologists, ancient temples had stood on the site of the current cathedral, starting with the Christian church of the 4th century to the Roman cathedral, whose stones formed the foundation of the present basilica. Its monumental construction continued for more than 180 years, and even after that, work has always been carried out to restore its interior decoration. Each ruler of France tried to make their changes to its interior. Thus, under Louis XIII, at the beginning of the 18th century, a new central altar and mural decorations were presented to the cathedral. In the 19th century, the statues were replaced, and a gallery of chimeras was installed on the facade of the building. The 21st century enriched the majestic cathedral with nine new bells, including the largest bell named Emmanuel. The old cathedral organ was restored during that time. You can see those old bells of the 19th century in the museum.

But some people sought to destroy the cathedral, decapitate stone statues and wipe out the royal coat of arms from the face of the earth. The most prominent secularist was the famous French revolutionary Maximilien Robespierre. Still, he also failed to destroy the main shrine of France, the beauty and splendor of which you can see today.

Nowadays, the hallmark of the French capital is a luxurious landmark of sacred architecture 35 meters high and 130 meters long with bell towers and original stained-glass windows of the 13th century making the rose windows of the main entrance. Its majestic stone facade is decorated with scenes of the Last Judgment from the Bible and statues of twenty-eight ancient Jewish kings. The Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral houses such great Christian relics as the Crown of Thorns of Jesus Christ, sliver of the cross on which He was crucified, and one of the nails with which He was nailed. Of no less interest is the cathedral square with the milepost zero and a bronze equestrian statue of King Charlemagne and his royal leudes.