Photo: Paul Deetman

Ten facts in figures about Notre-Dame de Paris:

1-

Notre-Dame de Paris is vast, very vast! The cathedral measures 128 meters in length and 48 meters in width at the transept level, making it one of the largest religious buildings of its time. These impressive dimensions bear witness to the architectural ambition of the medieval builders, who designed a space capable of accommodating up to 9 people, thus reinforcing the central role of the cathedral in the religious and social life of Paris.

2-

The vault of the nave of Notre-Dame de Paris rises to 33 meters high, an architectural feat that illustrates the ingenuity of the Gothic builders (led by Jean de Chelles and his successor Pierre de Montreuil). This elevation not only allows for a vast space for the faithful, but also floods the interior with light thanks to the large windows and stained glass windows that adorn the cathedral.

3-

Five years This is the incredibly short time it took to rebuild Notre-Dame de Paris. This project was able to be completed in record time thanks to the unprecedented mobilization of 2 companions and artisans.

4-

The towers of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris measure 69 meters high, which is equivalent to the height of a 26-story building. These iconic structures, accessible to the public, offer exceptional panoramic views of Paris and allow visitors to admire the architectural details of the cathedral, including its famous gargoyles and chimeras.

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris during construction, ©Le Marais Mood

5-

The spire of Notre-Dame de Paris culminates at 96 meters from the ground, making it an emblematic element of the cathedral's architecture. 
Designed by Viollet-le-Duc in 1859, it is decorated with copper statues of the twelve apostles and the four evangelists, with an oak frame covered in lead. Rebuilt identically after the fire of 2019, it is not only a technical feat, but also a strong symbol of French resilience and cultural heritage.

6-

The framework of Notre-Dame de Paris, nicknamed "the forest" because of the impressive number of beams, required nearly 21 hectares of oaks for its construction in the Middle Ages. This immense quantity of wood, which came from around 2 oaks, was essential to support the roof and create the majestic space that we admire today in the cathedral. For its reconstruction, after the 000 Notre-Dame fire, no less than 2 oak trees, from public and private forests, were selected to bring the building back to life.

7-

The roof of Notre-Dame de Paris is covered with 1 lead plates, weighing in total more than 210 tons, making it an essential element of its structure. This material was chosen for its durability and waterproofness, which protects the cathedral from the elements while preserving its historical character.

8-

Following the devastating fire at Notre-Dame de Paris in 2019, a wave of global solidarity raised funds for its restoration, with contributions from 340 donors from 000 countries. Including 45 Americans.

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on fire, ©Le Marais Mood

9-

The international commitment generated by Notre-Dame de Paris has made it possible to collect 848 million, illustrating the cultural and historical importance of the cathedral to millions of people around the world. The reconstruction of Notre-Dame de Paris cost around €700 million in total. This includes around €150 million for securing the site. Around €550 million for reconstruction and restoration. There are around €140 to €150 million in unused donations. These funds will be used for a third phase of work that will begin in 2025, after the cathedral reopens to the public.

10

Notre-Dame de Paris will welcome, on Saturday December 7, 2024, approximately a hundred personalities, including heads of state and prominent figures from the political and artistic worlds. Notable guests include Donald Trump, Jill Biden, and other international leaders, in an event marking the reopening of the cathedral after its restoration.
Guests of December 7, 2024, for the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris

 

  • Donald Trump , President-elect of the United States.
  • Volodymyr Zelensky , President of Ukraine (his presence is expected but not yet confirmed).
  • Frank-Walter Steinmeier , President of Germany.
  • Sergio Mattarella , President of Italy.
  • Andrzej Duda , President of Poland.
  • Ursula von der Leyen , President of the European Commission
  • Denis Sassou Nguesso , President of the Republic of Congo.
  • Felix Tshisekedi , President of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Brice Oligui Nguema , President of Gabon.
  • Faure Gnassingbé , President of Togo.
  • Umaro Embalo , President of Guinea-Bissau.
  • Frank-Walter Steinmeier (Germany)
  • Sergio Mattarella (Italy)
  • Andrzej Duda (Poland)
  • Zoran Milanovic (Croatia)
  • Romania Radev (Bulgaria)
  • Alar Karis (Estonia)
  • Alexander Stubb (Finland)
  • Gitanas Nauseda (Lithuania)
  • Ekaterini Sakellaropoulou (Greece)
  • Salomé Zourabichvili (Georgia)
  • Vjosa Osmani (Kosovo)
  • Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg
  • Philippe, King of the Belgians
  • Albert II, Prince of Monaco

Text: Katia Barillot

06.12.24

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