The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, a prime example of Gothic architecture and the seat of Paris’ Roman Catholic archbishop, was engulfed in flames Monday. What is its history, its significance, and how have cathedrals like it recovered from disaster?
Its cornerstone was laid in 1163, and work continued through the 14th century, when its large flying buttresses — its famous arched exterior supports — were installed. The cathedral’s 850th anniversary was celebrated in 2013. It has been the most visited monument in France, according to the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau.