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(Relevance: Architecture is an important part of UPSC CSE’s art and culture syllabus. Previously, the commission has asked questions about various historical monuments and their architecture. Additionally, knowing about places in the news is essential.)
Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of France’s most iconic landmarks, reopened on Saturday, December 7th, after five years of meticulous restoration following the devastating fire in 2019. The reopening ceremony began with Archbishop Laurent Ulrich striking the cathedral’s doors with his crozier, followed by a psalm sung inside. Notre Dame is expected to attract up to 15 million visitors annually.
1. The Notre Dame Cathedral has played a crucial role in shaping history, from safeguarding sacred relics in the 13th century to becoming the “Temple of Reason” during the French Revolution. It stands as a powerful symbol of French identity.
2. On 15 April 2019, flames engulfed Notre Dame, causing its roof to collapse and leaving the stone floor beneath covered in debris. While the cause remains unclear, investigators have suggested it was likely an accident, potentially caused by a burning cigarette or electrical fault.
3. Now, the cathedral’s spire, rib vaulting, flying buttresses, and gargoyles have been restored to their former glory, while its white stone and gold decorations now shine brightly. Thousands of artisans worked on the restoration, employing traditional techniques to preserve its historical integrity.
4. History of Cathedral: It is believed that the Notre-Dame is built at the site on which a Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter stood before. After the inception of Christianity in France, four other churches are known to have been built successively at the same site, before the construction of the Notre-Dame in 1160 under the Bishop of Paris, Maurice de Sully. It was largely completed by 1260.
5. Soon it became a religious focal point, attracting pilgrims eager to see the Crown of Thorns, believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ. During the French Revolution, its spiritual significance took a dramatic turn, as it was repurposed into the “Temple of Reason” and later the “Temple of the Supreme Being.”
6. Architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral: The Notre-Dame Cathedral is of immense significance in the art and architectural history of France. By the 12th century, Gothic architecture had already begun to dominate in France, and Notre-Dame remains one of its finest examples, featuring soaring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and impressive flying buttresses.
7. However, the structure, as it exists today, is the result of centuries of additions and modifications that reflect evolving artistic styles and the socio-political climate of various periods. For example, in the mid-13th century, the transepts were remodeled to align with the Rayonnant style of Gothic architecture, which was popular at the time. Additional changes occurred in the 16th century to match the classical style of that era.
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| With its distinctive design and rich heritage, Notre-Dame has inspired numerous works of art, literature, and music, including Victor Hugo’s iconic novel, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. |
1. Gothic architecture is an architectural style in Europe that existed from the mid-12th century to the 16th century. It is particularly defined by masonry buildings featuring cavernous spaces and walls adorned with intricate tracery.
2. Notably, During the 12th and 13th centuries, advancements in engineering enabled the construction of increasingly large buildings. The rib vault, flying buttress, and pointed Gothic arch were innovative solutions that allowed for the creation of tall structures while maximizing natural light.
3. Key features of Gothic architecture include the pointed Gothic arch, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses, and stained-glass windows. Additionally, gargoyles and grotesques were common, with an emphasis on light and tall, slender towers.
4. Prominent examples of Gothic architecture include: Chartres Cathedral in France, Westminster Abbey in London, Cathedral Church of Milan.
(Sources: Restored Notre-Dame Cathedral reopens after five years, Notre-Dame – architectural marvel and most important witness of French history)
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