The Religious side of Paris.....

No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the famous Notre dame. Stories, legends, and other tales have all been spun around this iconic church.

 It is incredibly intricate even on the outside of the cathedral.

 It is of course over 800 years old and from the gothic period of architecture.

 H liked the gargoyles on the outside of the church.....

which by the way allow rain to run off of the building the water from theses channels comes out of their mouths.

When we went it was Friday, and a Friday during lent so special services were in session. I have to say to me it is weird that we would visit a church during services, I mean people are trying to practice their religion.

 I understand though that there is a constant flow of people coming for a multitude of reasons and it is part of the church. Our tour guide says she has attended services many times and while there is a hum of activity the services are still wonderful, as she says.

 Because special services were going on there was no talking and no flash photography. I have to say I was slightly irritated by some of the people visiting the church. While I am not catholic myself I respect that the people attending the services are and this is there sacred place. I feel that it is a privilege for us to still be able to tour this beautiful sight while it is still being used for services and the people there should have respect for their religious practices. 

Many tourist were talking loudly pointing wildly or using flash photography. I can also understand from a historical sense no flash photography, this is a working church so many of the 800 year old artifacts are still being used.

 The statues, artwork, wooden sculptures etc. and these are 800 years old being bombarded with a flash everyday would cause undo stress. Alas not all of the tourist were respectful or thoughtful.......

The church lies on the city island, this island is said to be the birthplace of Paris. There is a star in front of the church they call the heart of France, it is literally the center of the city of Paris. 

H stood on this spot at the encouragement of our tour guide, it is suppose to bring you good fortune, and for women children. Yes, I walked around the star while I love my children 4 is plenty. H will have to absorb the good fortune for me. 

The front of the church has recently been cleaned the project took 6 years, and they did a remarkable job. 

I am amazed at the level of detail on the outside of the building it is truly breathtaking.

 Inside you weave through the outer perimeter of the cathedral. As you walk around you see alcoves with statues depicting scenes from the bible and statues of saints. March 1st is Saint David's day ( Happy Birthday Grandma !!!!) So this  area had flowers and a special area for peopl to light candles of prayer. The wooden paintings along the side of the center area are beautiful. Rich deep colors and of course gold paint also. 

Navy blues, hunter greens, and rich brick reds. The attention to detail here is amazing. I would be surprised if there was a surface that wasn't decorated in some meaningful and purposeful way. 

 During Lent there are services here every Friday, and only during this time of year are a special set of relics brought out for the services. It is said that at the time of the cathedral's building, people went to Jerusalem and recovered a portion of the Cross that Jesus was crucified on, the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. there are also bone fragments from different Saints. These relics are brought out for the services and people can view them as well as receive blessings during the communion with the relics. We were off to the side of the cathedral so when the procession of the knights and priests came from the services we were able to see the relics as they were being retired for the evening. I have been to Catholic services with friends and family but I had never scene a procession with incense and so many priests. I have to say this was a very moving procession. When I was watching the procession, I thought of all of my Catholic friends and family, I said a special prayer and wished they could have been there because I know this would have meant so much more to all of them.

 H was very interested in the procession and I was pleased that unlike many of the adults around him he was quiet and respectful, he genuinely liked learning about the services. For all of those reading this who are Catholic I dedicate this to you. I am so happy I saw Notre Dame and during such a special time of year thank you for sharing.