download notre dame cathedral gargoyles history

As a result of the book’s success, there was a renewed interest in the church, leading the king to call for its refurbishment. In order to remind the public of its historic importance, he penned The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, a novel that celebrates the mystery and magnificence of the Medieval cathedral. Bored of the Gothic style and embracing Baroque architecture, Parisians all but petitioned for the crumbling cathedral’s demolition.įortunately, French writer, playwright, and preservationist Victor Hugo sought to save it. No major restoration work had been carried out on the monument since the mid-19th century.Charles Nègre, “Henri Le Secq near the ‘Stryge’ chimera,” 1853 (Photo via Wikimedia Commons Public Domain)

The group was first set up in 2017 to raise 110 million euros to repair damage caused by wear and tear and pollution, as well as inferior materials used in the original construction. The item which had generated most interest and emotion was probably the 14th-century Virgin of the Pillar, which 'attracts the attention of believers because it is the Virgin Mary in all her beauty and significance', according to Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris president, Michel Picaud. The majority of the structure remained intact thanks to the rib vaulting, which saved centuries of priceless heritage central to French culture and history.Īmong the precious relics: what is said to be Jesus' crown of thorns and a part of the cross from his crucifixion, as well as the Tunic of St Louis. The blaze brought down the cathedral's towering spire and roof.

The Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris last week launched the website, which allows people to sponsor precious artworks, artefacts or even gargoyles that were damaged in the 2019 fire.

Download notre dame cathedral gargoyles history