Notre Dame facts for kids
Notre Dame is a French phrase that means "Our Lady." It is often used as the name for many important religious buildings, especially churches and cathedrals, that are dedicated to the Virgin Mary. You might have heard about the famous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, which had a big fire in 2019.
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Famous Notre Dame Cathedrals in France
France is home to many beautiful and historic cathedrals named Notre Dame. These buildings are often hundreds of years old and show amazing architecture.
Notre Dame de Paris
The most famous of these is the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is a very old and grand church known for its stunning Gothic architecture, which includes tall spires, detailed sculptures, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Construction of this cathedral began in 1163 and took nearly 200 years to complete! It has been a central part of French history, witnessing many important events.
In April 2019, a large fire broke out at the cathedral, causing significant damage to its roof and spire. However, thanks to a huge effort from people around the world, the cathedral is being carefully rebuilt and restored.
Other Notable Cathedrals
- Notre-Dame de Bayeux: This cathedral is located in Bayeux, France, and is known for its Romanesque and Gothic styles.
- Notre-Dame de Chartres: Found in Chartres, this cathedral is famous for its incredible collection of medieval stained glass and its two distinct spires.
- Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille: This basilica sits on a hill overlooking the city of Marseille and is topped with a large golden statue of the Virgin Mary.
- Notre-Dame de Reims: Located in Reims, this cathedral was where many French kings were crowned. It is another masterpiece of Gothic art.
- Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp: This is a much more modern church, designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier, known for its unique and unusual shape.
- Notre-Dame de Strasbourg: This impressive cathedral in Strasbourg was once the tallest building in the world and features a stunning astronomical clock.
Other Uses of "Notre Dame"
The name "Notre Dame" isn't only used for churches and cathedrals. It can also refer to other places and things.
Educational Institutions
- University of Notre Dame: This is a very well-known university located in the state of Indiana, United States. It is famous for its strong academic programs and its sports teams.
- Notre Dame College, Dhaka: This is a college located in Bangladesh, known for its education and community involvement.
Literature
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame: This is a famous novel written by Victor Hugo in 1831. Its original French title is Notre Dame de Paris. The story is set in and around the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and tells the tale of Quasimodo, the bell-ringer, and Esmeralda, a dancer.
See also
In Spanish: Notre Dame para niños
