5 things about Paris' Notre Dame you probably didn't know, including its gargoyle myth

[EUROPE] Paris' iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, has captivated visitors for centuries. As this architectural marvel prepares to reopen its doors after a devastating fire in 2019, let's explore five fascinating facts about Notre Dame that you might not be aware of, including the intriguing myth surrounding its famous gargoyles.

1. The Great Gargoyle Myth

One of the most enduring misconceptions about Notre Dame is the age of its famous gargoyles. While many believe these stone creatures have been perched on the cathedral since medieval times, the truth is far more recent and intriguing.

The actual gargoyles, which serve as monster-shaped gutters to drain rainwater, have indeed been part of the cathedral since its construction. However, the dramatic, monster-like figures that often appear on postcards and in movies are not gargoyles at all, but chimeras.

These chimeras were added to the cathedral during a 19th-century renovation led by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. Inspired by Victor Hugo's famous novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," Viollet-le-Duc created these demonic animal figures with personified expressions to enhance the cathedral's mystique.

The creation of these chimeras was no small feat. Sculptor Victor Pyanet, whose name has since faded into obscurity, worked under challenging conditions to bring these creatures to life. The labor was difficult and often dangerous, dispelling the romantic notion of the skilled medieval craftsman.

2. A Mathematical Marvel

Notre Dame's beauty is not just a product of artistic inspiration; it's also the result of precise mathematical calculations. The cathedral's Gothic design is rooted in the "Golden Ratio," a mathematical concept that produces aesthetically pleasing proportions.

This "sacred geometry," utilized by medieval builders, ensures that the cathedral's façade and overall appearance align with nature's most harmonious number, Phi (1.618). This mathematical precision contributes to the visual perfection that has made Notre Dame one of the most admired structures in the world.

3. A Foundation Built on History

Notre Dame's rich history extends far beyond its visible structure. The cathedral was built on top of four previous churches, each layer representing a different era of Parisian history.

Construction began in 1163 at the initiative of Bishop Maurice de Sully of Paris. The new cathedral incorporated elements from the Merovingian, Carolingian, and Romanesque structures that preceded it, creating a physical timeline of the city's religious architecture.

4. A Symbol of Resilience

Throughout its 860-year history, Notre Dame has stood as a symbol of Paris' resilience. This was particularly evident during World War II when the cathedral played a crucial role in the city's liberation.

On August 25, 1944, as Paris was being liberated from Nazi occupation, Notre Dame became a focal point of celebration and hope. The cathedral's survival through centuries of turmoil, including the French Revolution and two world wars, is a testament to its enduring significance in French culture and history.

5. The Rooster's Secret

Perched atop Notre Dame's tallest spire is a unique feature that often goes unnoticed: a metal rooster. Far from being merely decorative, this rooster serves as a "spiritual lightning rod," designed to protect worshippers inside the cathedral.

What makes this rooster truly special is its contents. Hidden within the metal bird are sacred relics, including a piece of Christ's Crown of Thorns and relics of Saint Denis and Saint Genevieve, both patron saints of Paris. These powerful protectors have watched over the cathedral and its visitors for generations.

The Restoration and Reopening

After the devastating fire in April 2019, Notre Dame underwent an extensive five-year restoration process. The reopening on December 8, 2024, marks a significant moment in the cathedral's storied history.

The restoration has been meticulous, with attention paid to every detail. The new spire and rib vaulting have been carefully reconstructed, the flying buttresses and carved stone gargoyles have been returned to their former glory, and the white stone and gold decorations now shine brighter than ever.

Notre Dame's Enduring Legacy

Notre Dame is more than just a religious site; it's a living monument to French history and culture. From hosting the first Estates-General in 1302 to surviving the French Revolution and two world wars, the cathedral has been a constant presence in Paris' evolving story.

Its reopening is eagerly anticipated not just by Catholics, but by all who appreciate its historical and cultural significance. As it prepares to welcome visitors once again, Notre Dame stands as a testament to the resilience of human creativity and the enduring power of architectural beauty.