We were all shocked and saddened to learn of the burning of Notre Dame Cathedral on April 15th. The flames could be seen burning all the way from atop of Montmartre’s towering hill. Thousands of people flocked to the streets to catch a glimpse of the orange flames and billowing white smoke.
It was touching to watch people watch in awe, cry, and hug over the loss of this monument that attracts millions of visitors each year. We love educating our very own clients with visits to her beautiful views every year and then the chance to take in different perspectives of the cathedral from the surrounding islands just nearby.
The firefighters fought bravely into the night until 4 am to be exact but were able to save most of the Cathedral, and we couldn’t be more thankful. By the evening the roof had caved in as onlookers videoed and shared the trauma collectively.
We sat down with art historian Ben Glenn to learn some surprising information about the history of Notre Dame and the state it is in since the fire.
“If it is any solace, Notre Dame is one of the most heavily restored Gothic cathedrals in France. Not to diminish today’s tragedy, but the news coverage is hyping this disaster without reporting the structure’s actual history.
For example, Notre Dame was in a state of severe disrepair in 1900. The Gallery of Kings was missing all of its sculptures, the central spire is gone, and the portal sculptures had been mutilated or removed entirely. In fact, the building nearly was demolished, only to be saved by Napoleon himself. Until the 19th century, the structure suffered extensive damage to the point where it was largely abandoned and used for storage of grain and artillery.
Virtually all of the stained-glass windows are 19th-century replacements, save for the west façade rose window.
The now-collapsed spire was a 19th-century restoration, as was the roof. The primary concern at this moment of fire is the interior, and if the now-exposed vaults can withstand the weight of water. The interior holds some important medieval sculptures as well as centuries-old relics, and they are major concerns.”
Written by our Paris Network Developer, Krystal Kenney
See the classic sights of Paris with this collection of Private Tours and other experiences. Great for New Travelers.
Some parts of France can’t be put into a 2 or 3-hour tour and some just take a while to get to. Venture out of Paris on an exciting Day Trip.
Experience some of the most significant works of art in Paris on a Private Art Tour. Learn about the story’s of the painters behind the works and ask questions along the way.
Taste the latest Paris Food experiences with our personal and tasty private food tours. Learn to make authentic Parisian meals, taste chocolate assortments, or…
From perfume to WW2, our private history tours are a way to see Paris in a different light.
Experience immersive music tours in Paris. Sit and listen up close to an award-winning Master Pipe Organist or learn about the history of Jazz in Paris on a private tour!
Looking for something particular? We’ll help you find it in Paris. Our private shopping tours include Antiques, Wardrobe, and more!
The Château de Fontainebleau, just 35 miles southeast of central Paris, can proudly claim to have been a sovereign residence for eight centuries. Capétiens, Valois, Bourbons, Bonaparte and Orléans, all members of French ruling dynasties, have lived within these walls. The chateau dates back to 1137—and centuries of royals have expanded this former royal hunting lodge to a more than 1,500-room estate. Most of what you’ll see dates back to the 16th century, a combination of Italian Renaissance art and French design, these rooms are some of the most intricate and breathtaking in France. If times allows, you can enjoy lunch in this charming area.
Tour Length: 5 – 6 hours
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