Notre-Dame watches over Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris is located in the middle of the city, on the Ăle de la CitĂ©. As many as 14 million people step across the threshold every year to admire the cathedral from within. Those who brave the 387 steps to the top of the south tower are treated to stunning views of the city and the vast Seine, and come eye to eye with the famous gargoyles.
The treasures of Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame houses many treasures. Most striking are perhaps the colourful window rosettes from the 13th century. The largest one is in the south façade: this immense window shows various scenes from the Old and New Testaments in 4 circles. 3 relics associated with Jesus are also kept in the cathedral: a piece of the true cross, the crown of thorns, and one of the holy nails.
The hunchback of Notre-Dame
Many old buildings have a story, myth or legend, and almost everyone knows the Hunchback of Notre-Dame. The tale comes from the eponymous book (called simply Notre-Dame de Paris in French) written in 1831 by Victor Hugo. It tells of the hunchback bell-ringer Quasimodo who lives high up in the towers of Notre-Dame and falls in love with the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda. His love remains unrequited. The story has been adapted for the big screen several times and Disneyâs 1996 cartoon version brought it to an audience of all ages.
Fantastic gargoyles
The gargoyles on the façade were placed at the end of the gutters to drain the rainwater so that it wouldnât run down the walls of the cathedral. Other residents of the tower include the funny statues (drĂŽleries) of the Galerie des ChimĂšres. These monstrous caricatures were intended to scare off demons: seated on the galleries around the towers they watch over Paris day and night. Their creators used their imagination well for these half human, half animal statues â elements such as beaks, snake tails and eagle wings give them an often terrifying look.
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Nature
September is one of the most pleasant months to visit Paris. The temperatures are still mild and the low-hanging sun casts a golden glow on the boulevards. The parks are especially beautiful at this time of the year. Even as the first leaves begin to change colour, the flower beds remain in full bloom and Parisians soak up the last few warm days.
Culinary
Many Parisians prefer not to buy their vegetables, fruit and other fresh produce in the supermarket â and with good reason: the city has dozens of markets, which are often open several times a week. Freshly baked baguettes, juicy cherries and the best regional wines are all found here. And most sellers are happy to let you try their delicacies.
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