Cathedral Notre-Dame

Place du parvis de Notre Dame
Paris, France

Contributed by Project for Public Spaces

The plaza in front of Notre Dame and the small parks and gardens around it give the cathedral a setting that few other buildings can match.

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Why It Works

No iconic building in any major city receives more attention than this spectacular cathedral. But as fascinating and detailed as the building may be both inside and out, it derives its awe-inspiring presence from a setting that few other buildings can match. Many visitors view the cathedral from the Place du Parvis Notre-Dame, a plaza located in front of the building’s façade. But you are more likely to encounter Notre Dame from one of the many vantage points along the Seine that afford breath-taking views of its flying buttresses. Located on the eastern tip of Ile-de-la-Cité, one of the two small islands in the center of Paris, the cathedral appears to rise from the Seine like an ancient formation of sculpted rock. It is one of the most unforgettable urban vistas you will ever encounter.

The pleasures of Notre Dame don’t stop with the view. It also offers little flourishes like small parks and gardens, along with a playground for children. Playing or strolling in the presence of this landmark is a rare experience that many lucky Parisians enjoy daily and no visitor can afford to miss.

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User Comments:

08/17/05 Kate Spaulding said:
Notre-Dame is still one of the most beautiful cathedrals inside and out. It's location on the Ile de la Cite in the middle of the Seine makes it that much more spectacular to see once you get there. You can access the little island by subway or walking across the bridges, and it is definitely worth it seeing the cathedral in person. The rear of the cathedral is almost more impressive, and although the surrounding cafes are slightly more pricey, the food and experience is exceptional.
09/12/06 Deryck Irving said:
The gardens and squares around Notre Dame reach out "like an octopus" making this end of the Ile de la Cite into larger (and equally good) place including an amazing market and probably the most moving memorial I have ever encountered - the "Memorial de la Deportation". During the summer, you are also within walking distance of the Paris Plage.

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