NOTRE-DAME
DE PARIS
ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION
NOTRE DAME
contents
01 SITE CONTEXT
HISTORICAL
02 SIGNIFICANCE
03 VALUE ASSESMENT
04 CAUSE OF DECAY
CONSERVATION
05
EFFORTS
SITE CONTEXT
Notre-Dame de Paris is a quintessential example of French Gothic
architecture, initiated in 1163 and completed by 1345.
Its design features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses,
which allow for taller structures and expansive stained glass windows
that illuminate the interior.
The cathedral's construction reflects a shift from Romanesque to
Gothic styles, characterized by intricate sculptures and a grand façade
with three ornate portals35. Located on the Île de la Cité, it serves as a
historical and cultural symbol of Paris, embodying nearly nine
centuries of architectural innovation.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Historical Context
The history of Notre-Dame Cathedral is deeply tied to France's history.
Originally built in the 12th century and modified in the 18th and 19th
centuries, it symbolizes Christian worship in Paris.
In the 6th century, Paris became the Christian center of the Frankish
kingdom, with the construction of the Saint-Étienne Cathedral. The city
flourished in the 12th century, leading Bishop Maurice de Sully to build the
larger Notre-Dame to accommodate the growing number of faithful. By the
13th century, Paris' population had doubled, and Saint Louis brought the
relics of Christ’s Passion, housed at Notre-Dame until the French
Revolution.
Over time, the cathedral evolved architecturally but suffered neglect during
the Renaissance and damage during the Revolution. A resurgence of
interest, partly inspired by Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame,
led to its restoration in the 19th century. Recognized as a UNESCO World
Heritage Site in 1991, it was France's most visited monument in 2018.
After the devastating fire of April 15, 2019, which destroyed its spire and
medieval framework, Notre-Dame is undergoing restoration and is set to
reopen for worship and visitors on December 8, 2024.
Architectural Features
Style/Design: Notre-Dame is a prime example of French Gothic
architecture. Key elements include its flying buttresses, pointed arches,
ribbed vaults, and large stained glass windows (notably the Rose Windows).
Architects/Designers: The cathedral was designed by Maurice de Sully, the
bishop of Paris, though several architects contributed over time, including
Jean de Chelles and Pierre de Montreuil. The most significant architect in
the construction of the cathedral was Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, who oversaw
the major restoration in the 19th century.
Materials: The building is primarily constructed from limestone, with the
famous flying buttresses made of stone to provide structural support.
Construction Techniques: The cathedral is notable for its use of flying
buttresses, which allowed for the construction of taller walls with larger
windows, filling the interior with light.
Cultural and Social Impact
Local or Global Impact: Notre-Dame is a cultural and historical icon,
attracting millions of visitors from around the world. It holds immense
cultural significance both locally for Parisians and for people around the
globe as a symbol of Christianity and French heritage.
Role in Society: The cathedral has been the backdrop for countless cultural,
social, and political events. It remains a center of worship and a place for
national ceremonies.
People/Events Associated: The building has witnessed the coronation of
kings, including that of Henry VI of England in 1431, and the famous funeral
of General de Gaulle in 1970.
Artistic Influence: The cathedral has inspired countless works of art,
including Victor Hugo’s novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" (1831),
which played a pivotal role in the cathedral’s preservation. It has also been
featured in various films, operas, and paintings.
Role in National/Local Identity: Notre-Dame is a symbol of French national
identity and Catholicism. It has been the site of numerous national events
and ceremonies, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of French culture
UNESCO or Other Designations: The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage
Site, recognized for its cultural and historical value as one of the finest
examples of Gothic architecture.
VALUE ASSESSMENT
Notre-Dame de Paris is not only a masterpiece of Gothic
architecture but also a significant cultural and historical symbol.
Its values can be categorized into several types, particularly in
the context of architectural conservation and its designation as
a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
1. CULTURAL VALUE
Represents France's cultural heritage and national identity.
Symbolizes centuries of artistic expression and significant
historical events.
Hosted major events, enhancing its cultural resonance.
U.S. SOLDIERS FILL THE PEWS OF NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL, PARIS, FRANCE, APRIL 16, 1945,
DURING THE GI MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR U.S. PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT. (AP PHOTO/MORSE)
PEOPLE WATCH AS PHILIPPE PETIT, A 21-YEAR-OLD A GENERAL VIEW OF THE MEMORIAL SERVICE IN NOTRE POPE JOHN PAUL II, JOINED BY BISHOPS IN RAINBOW
PROFESSIONAL TIGHTROPE WALKER, APPEARS AS THE TINY DAME DE PARIS CATHEDRAL, IN PARIS, FRANCE, FOR THE STRIPES, HELD A HISTORIC BEATIFICATION MASS AT NOTRE-
FIGURE SITTING ON A TIGHTROPE, STRUNG 225 FEET ABOVE LATE FRENCH PRESIDENT GEORGES POMPIDOU ON APRIL 6, DAME CATHEDRAL IN PARIS ON AUGUST 22, 1997,
THE GROUND, BETWEEN THE TWO TOWERS OF THE NOTRE 1974, WHO HAD BEEN BURIED IN A SIMPLE CEREMONY ON HONORING FREDERIC OZANAM, FOUNDER OF THE ST.
DAME CATHEDRAL, PARIS, FRANCE ON JUNE 26, 1971, THE OUTSKIRTS OF THE CITY. REPUBLICAN GUARDS LINE THE VINCENT DE PAUL CHARITY. BEATIFICATION IS A STEP
DURING A STUNT WHICH LASTED SEVERAL HOURS, WITH AISLE DURING THE SERVICE. TOWARD SAINTHOOD.
POLICE UNABLE TO BRING HIM DOWN. (AP PHOTO) (AP PHOTO/DOMENICO STINELLIS)
(AP PHOTO/CARDENAS)
2. HISTORICAL VALUE
Construction spanned from 1163 to nearly 1350, showcasing
diverse architectural styles.
Each phase contributes to its historical narrative and
understanding of Gothic architecture.
3. ARCHITECTURAL VALUE
A pinnacle of French Gothic architecture with flying buttresses,
ribbed vaults, and rose windows.
Influenced subsequent architectural practices and features
intricate sculptures and stained glass.
4. ARTISTIC VALUE
Displays elaborate sculptures, paintings, and stained glass
depicting biblical stories and saints. ON THE OCCASION OF THE 800TH ANNIVERSARY OF NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL IN PARIS,
AN EXHIBITION OF RELIGIOUS ART OPENED AT THE SAINTE CHAPOLLO (HOLY CHAPEL),
Functions as an open-air museum showcasing medieval artistry. NOTRE DAME, JUNE 20, 1963. AMONG THE WORKS EXHIBITED IS THIS 13TH CENTURY
MARBLE STATUE NOTRE DAME LA BLANCHE THAT STOOD IN NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL
UNTIL THE REVOLUTION AND IS NOW AT MAGNY-EN-VEXIN.
(AP PHOTO/JEAN-JACQUES LEVY)
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO PROTECT A MOSAIC REPRODUCTION OF THE MEXICAN-CELEBRATED HUGE DRAPES COVER MOST OF NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL
THE STATUES AND SCULPTURED STONES OF NOTRE DAME VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE WEARS A CROWN AT THE IN PARIS AS IT IS WHITEWASHED TO RESTORE IT TO ITS
CATHEDRAL IN PARIS AGAINST AERIAL BOMBARDMENTS ON CATHEDRAL OF NOTRE DAME IN PARIS, APRIL 26, 1949, AFTER ORIGINAL SPOTLESSNESS, ON OCT. 26, 1968.
SEPT. 12, 1939. SANDBAGS PILED UP AS A PROTECTION A CORONATION CEREMONY PERFORMED BY CARDINAL (AP PHOTO/MAURENT)
AGAINST SOME OF THE CARVED STONEWORK. EMMANUEL CELESTIN SUHARD, ARCHBISHOP OF PARIS.
(AP PHOTO) (AP PHOTO/JEAN-JACQUES LEVY)
5. EDUCATIONAL VALUE
Offers insights into medieval craftsmanship, religious
practices, and architectural evolution.
Serves as a case study for architecture and conservation
students; ongoing restoration integrates modern
technologies
6. SYMBOLIC VALUE
Represents resilience and continuity, especially after the
2019 fire.
Highlights the cathedral's significance as a cultural icon,
prompting global support for restoration efforts.
THE TWO TOWERS OF NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL IN PARIS ARE PICTURED FROM THE SPIRE,
JUNE 13, 1998. NOTRE-DAME WAS STARTED IN 1163 AND STILL ISN'T FINISHED. BUT THAT'S
NOT UNUSUAL WITH GOTHIC CATHEDRALS, OFTEN HAVING EITHER BEEN DESTROYED BY WAR
AND THEN REFURBISHED, OR RENOVATED JUST TO ELIMINATE THE FLAWS.
(AP PHOTO/REMY DE LA MAUVINIERE)
Notre-Dame de Paris
is not just an
architectural marvel;
it embodies cultural,
historical, artistic,
educational, and
symbolic values that
resonate deeply with
society. Its ongoing
restoration will
continue to reflect
these values for
future generations.
POPE BENEDICT XVI DELIVERS A MESSAGE FROM THE FRONT YOUNG TOURISTS, AFTER TIRESOME SIGHTSEEING OF PARIS,
OF THE NOTRE-DAME CATHEDRAL IN PARIS, FRIDAY, SEPT. AUGUST 15, 1974, HAD A NIGHT'S SLEEP ON THE LAWNS IN
12, 2008, FOLLOWING A VESPERS SERVICE. FRONT OF NOTRE DAME, CUDDLED IN THEIR SLEEPING BAGS.
(AP PHOTO/ALESSANDRA TARANTINO) (AP PHOTO/MICHEL LIPCHITZ)
CAUSE OF DECAY
The decay of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is attributed
to a combination of factors, both natural and human-induced.
Key causes include:
1. Aging and Wear of Materials
The cathedral, constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries,
faced natural aging over time. Stone, timber, and other
materials degraded due to centuries of exposure.
Limestone used in its construction is particularly
susceptible to weathering, especially from pollution and
acid rain.
2. Pollution and Acid Rain
Industrialization in the 19th and 20th centuries increased
air pollution, which contributed to the formation of acid
rain. Acid rain reacts with the limestone, eroding its surface
and weakening its structure.
Soot and particulate matter from pollution also darkened
and damaged the facade.
3. Climate and Weather Factors
Paris experiences frequent rain, temperature fluctuations, and freeze-
thaw cycles, which stress the stone and lead to cracks and structural
instability.
Over time, the wooden framework and roof, known as the "Forest,"
were particularly vulnerable to moisture damage.
4. Fire Hazard and the 2019 Fire
The 2019 fire was a major catastrophic event that caused severe
damage to the roof and spire, exacerbating the cathedral's decay. It
weakened structural elements, melted lead roofing, and left the
building exposed to further deterioration.
The fire was likely caused by electrical faults or other ignition sources,
highlighting vulnerabilities in its fire safety measures.
5. Structural Stress
Over centuries, the weight of the building and differential settlement
of its foundation placed stress on the structure. Some areas, like flying
buttresses, showed signs of weakness before the fire.
Vibrations from nearby traffic and construction could have
exacerbated this stress.
CONSERVATION EFFORTS
Immediate Response and Initial Conservation Measures
Following the fire, emergency measures were implemented to stabilize the structure. This included
securing the remaining parts of the building to prevent further damage. The first phase of these
safety measures was expected to conclude in the summer of 2020, although progress was
hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers have been analyzing the rubble and remnants
from the fire to gain insights into the cathedral's construction techniques and previous
conservation efforts
Ongoing Restoration Progress
Rebuilding the Spire: The 19th-century spire, designed by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, was destroyed
in the fire. Restoration teams are reconstructing it using traditional materials and methods to
maintain the historical accuracy of the cathedral.
Roof and Timber Frame: The roof's timber frame, known as "The Forest," was almost entirely
destroyed. Skilled artisans are carefully restoring this frame using oak, replicating the original
construction techniques.
Salvage and clean artworks and stained glass windows, some of which were moved to secure
locations for restoration and preservation.
Restore damaged sculptures, including the statues that once decorated the spire and those
found throughout the cathedral.
Cleaning frescoes and sculptures that were affected by soot and fire residue.
Repainting and restoring murals, including delicate details on the ceiling and other parts of the
interior.
