Notre-Dame

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We walked by Notre-Dame several times over the last few days and finally committed to braving the crowds. The line for the cheap-ass entry was long but ushered us in quickly. The line to the far left is for those wishing to climb up to the upper veranda. The inside is a dramatic contrast to the bright, penetrating sun, school groups, and tourist-trap salesmen outside. People move relatively respectfully through the monstrous and caverness alcoves. A surprising amount of access is granted to visitors. Much of the church continues to be used for services. They offer an interesting version of confession - an ancient alcove was encased in modern, frosted glass with about 10 chairs out front for those seeking absolution with the attending priest inside.

The flow is counterclockwise with the middle portion sectioned-off but still visible. Ancient Latin script, paintings and furniture fill the interior with odd items such as a cardinal's sarcophagus and a massive candelabra on the floor.

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Photos

Candle for Grandpa Flaherty
As requested, Sarah lit a candle once we were inside of Notre Dame.

Notre-Dame
This is facing East towards the front. Notre Dame is located on an island on the Seine.

Sweetie on the East side
East-most side of Notre Dame. This is a good example of flying buttresses used mostly in the Gothic period.

North Wall of Notre Dame
All the saints were removed from the alcoves on this side - later found them in the Louvre.

North West corner
Looking straight up. Notice some of the small holes - guessing they were used for scaffolding.

Joan D'Arc
Statue of the 20 year old that organized France against the British.

Wall Painting
Joan Crawford would not be happy with the lack of cleanliness here - this is an example of pre- and post cleaning on some of the wall paintings in Notre Dame.

Mass
Mass facilitated to the congregation and tourists alike. Try to ignore Japanese tourists talking loudly on their cell phones.

Comments

[Jay]

Striking similarity
Am I mistaken, or does that photo of Joan D'Arc look strikingly similar to Sarah when she carries a pike around Raleigh.