Paris pt. 3 850 years of Catholicism

Cute metro stop leading to an underground labyrinth
of passages and rail lines

After we left the Arc de Triomphe, we decided to try out the metro rail. Turns out it was super easy! For only €3.40, both of us were able to ride to any single stop on the metro. After learning this, I regretted walking all day. Every joint and every muscle in my lower body was throbbing by the time we sat down on the train. We rode to the stop closest to Notre Dame de Paris and set out to fulfill the last identifiable picture from 1945.

Like many cathedrals in Europe, Notre Dame is the result of centuries of work. This cathedral is one of the first buildings designed in the gothic style, and in fact set the precedents of architecture for many cathedrals following after. It may be difficult to pronounce Notre Dame ever truly finished. This year marks the 850^th anniversary of the church, and they are receiving 9 new bells from the French government. The new bells will replace the bells that have rung in the church since 1856. The 1856 bells were themselves replacement bells; cast of poor quality metal and producing inferior sound. During the French revolution, the bells were stolen from the church and melted down; since that time, the bells in the cathedral have not done justice to the majesty of the building.

The Portal of the Last Judegment
Western Facade, Notre Dame de Paris
2011

The Portal of the Last Judegment
Western Facade, Notre Dame de Paris
1945

We arrived shortly before a mass, and were able to witness the start of the service. Friday night Advent services include several priest and frankincense and myrrh. A warm glow filled the massive space from candles and spotlights; just enough to keep the rooms dim. It is very easy to understand how the cathedral could represent the power and beauty of God to the people.

Notre Dame de Paris