Description
Gothic Paris around Notre Dame
Practical informations
- Location: 1, quai de la Corse outside the Tribunal (Métro Cité line 4)
- Duration : 2h (3h with optional visits)
- walking tour
- Medieval buildings including Notre Dame (exterior) and two smaller churches
- Sainte Chapelle and Conciergerie on option at the end of the tour (20€/pers)
- Small group (up to 8 people) 50-80€ pp
- Private group tour at any date (270€/group) + tickets on top
The Gothic Paris around Notre Dame seminar is aimed at understanding the evolution in Gothic architecture, both civilian and religious. We’ll also talk of the political and historic implications implied by the concentration of Judicial, legislative, executive and religious powers on this fairly small island.
We’ll first take a look at the Cité Palace, now home of the the investigation police and the Palais de Justice, but first palace of the French Kings, when they settled in Paris.
Most of the elements left today date the 13th and 14th century, when the Kings expanded the Palace. Towers, walls and the impressive second biggest Gothic vaulted room in the world (the Conciergerie).
King Saint Louis, in 1242, started the construction of the Sainte Chapelle, jewel of Gothic art, to house the most holy relic in the christian world: the Crown of thorns of the Christ.
Note the Sainte Chapelle requires advance booking.
We’ll head after for one of the most visited monument in the world: Cathedral Notre Dame.
Started in 1163, and completed by the 1250’s. The magnificent roses where added in the 15th century. The most prestigious and important Church in France was deprived from most of its jewels and art works during the French Revolution, even used as a warehouse for a few years. Refurbishment was led in the 19th century with exciting changes! Due to the fire in April 2019, interior visits have been suspended.
After Notre Dame, we’ll head for a more remote area on the island, before admiring the cathedral from the back, with some key Gothic elements to understand the structure. More medieval building will be on the way and even the oldest tree in Paris in a garden nearby, prior to see the two last Churches of the tour, witnessing changes in the Gothic art, from primitive to flamboyant.
