The construction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is one of the most fascinating architectural stories in history. But how long did it take to build Notre Dame Cathedral? This article explores its incredible 200-year journey — from its first stone in 1163 to its completion in the 14th century — revealing the challenges, innovations, and craftsmanship that shaped one of the world’s most iconic monuments.
Table of Contents
The Ambitious Vision Behind Notre Dame Construction
Medieval Engineering Limitations
Building Notre Dame in an era without modern tools and machinery was a monumental challenge. Medieval architects relied on trial and error, as well as innovative techniques like rib vaults and flying buttresses, to support the cathedral’s immense weight.
Wars and Political Turmoil during the Construction of Notre Dame Cathedral
Throughout its construction, France experienced wars, plagues, and economic downturns, causing interruptions and slow progress. The Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453) also diverted resources away from construction projects.
The Timeline of Notre Dame’s Construction
When did Construction Begin?
The foundation stone of Notre Dame de Paris was laid in 1163 during the reign of King Louis VII. The cathedral was commissioned by Bishop Maurice de Sully, who envisioned a grand structure that would reflect Paris’s growing importance as a religious and cultural center.
Major Phases of Construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral
- 1182-1250: This period marked the construction of the western façade, the nave, and the twin bell towers. The western façade, which houses the magnificent three portals (depicting biblical scenes such as the Last Judgment), was carefully designed to reflect the grandeur and solemnity of the cathedral. By the early 13th century, work on the rose windows began, introducing breathtaking stained glass that would become one of Notre Dame’s most defining features. The two iconic bell towers, standing at 69 meters tall, were completed around 1250, giving the cathedral its recognizable silhouette.
- 1250-1345: This phase saw the completion of the flying buttresses, which reinforced the cathedral’s stability and allowed for the construction of larger stained-glass windows, including the famous south rose window. Additional chapels were also built around the choir, adding to the cathedral’s grandeur. The sculptural decoration, including the intricate gargoyles and chimeras, was finalized, giving Notre Dame its characteristic medieval aesthetic. By 1345, the cathedral was considered complete, with its towering architecture standing as a symbol of Paris’s spiritual and cultural prominence.
By 1345, nearly two centuries after its inception, the cathedral was considered fully built, though minor additions and renovations continued in later years.
Notre Dame’s Evolution over the Centuries
Although officially completed in 1345, Notre Dame continued to evolve:
- 17th-18th Century: During this period, the cathedral underwent significant modifications to align with changing religious and artistic sensibilities. Many medieval decorations were removed, and baroque influences were introduced. In 1699, at the request of King Louis XIV, the original medieval choir screen was dismantled to make way for a more open and grandiose design. New baroque-style altars and chapels were added, reflecting the artistic preferences of the time. The cathedral also became the site of important royal ceremonies, further solidifying its status as a central monument of French religious and political life.
- French Revolution (1789-1799): The French Revolution brought significant devastation to Notre Dame. The cathedral, seen as a symbol of the monarchy and religious authority, was looted and severely damaged. Revolutionary forces beheaded statues of biblical kings, mistaking them for French monarchs, and many treasures, including religious artifacts, were either destroyed or stolen.
The church was officially secularized and renamed the Temple of Reason, hosting radical political events instead of religious ceremonies. The iconic bells, except for one, were melted down to create cannons, and the structure itself fell into neglect. By the end of the Revolution, Notre Dame was in a state of ruin, requiring urgent restoration. During this period, the Crown of Thorns was actually moved to Notre Dame.
- 19th century restoration: By the early 1800s, Notre Dame was in a dire state of disrepair. Public interest in the cathedral was reignited by Victor Hugo’s novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (1831), which highlighted its architectural beauty and historical importance.
This led to a widespread movement to save the structure. In 1844, King Louis-Philippe ordered an extensive restoration, led by architects Eugène Viollet-le-Duc and Jean-Baptiste Lassus. The restoration included rebuilding the spire, restoring damaged sculptures, and reinforcing the flying buttresses. Viollet-le-Duc also added new gothic elements, sometimes interpreting the medieval style rather than replicating it precisely. The project took over 20 years and was completed in 1864, ensuring Notre Dame’s survival for future generations.
Impact of the 2019 Fire and Restoration Efforts
The Destruction of the Spire
On April 15, 2019, a devastating fire severely damaged Notre Dame, collapsing its 850-year-old wooden roof and spire. The world watched as firefighters bravely saved the cathedral’s structure and treasures, including the Crown of Thorns relic.
Rebuilding Notre Dame
Efforts to restore the cathedral are ongoing, with plans to finish completely in 2027. The project aims to replicate original medieval techniques, ensuring authenticity and longevity.
Visit the oficial website of Notre Dame to get updates on the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Conclusion
Notre Dame’s long construction and multiple restorations highlight its enduring legacy. Despite wars, revolutions, and disasters, it remains a beacon of faith, history, and architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
It took approximately 182 years to complete Notre Dame, from 1163 to 1345.
The cathedral’s construction was delayed by medieval engineering challenges, financial limitations, and political instability, including wars and economic crises.
Notre Dame was designed by several architects over generations, including Jean de Chelles and Pierre de Montreuil, with initial direction from Bishop Maurice de Sully.
Additional chapels, sculptures, and stained-glass restorations were added. The 19th-century restoration led by Viollet-le-Duc introduced the now-famous spire.
Notre Dame has reopened in December 2024. A grand ceremony at Notre Dame has been organised on 2024 December 7th, with the French president and other heads of state, and the very first mass celebrated the next morning.
Plan Your Visit to Notre Dame Today!
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