Paris: On the Seine near Notre-Dame by Hilke Maunder

What could be nicer than cruising along the Seine in one of Paris' excursion boats and taking in the world-famous sights as you gently glide along? Like Notre-Dame, probably the most famous cathedral in the world. In 1163, Pope Alexander III laid its foundation stone on the Île de la Cité, the nucleus of Paris in the middle of the Seine. Less than 60 years later, in 1220, the first church service was held. The chapels were still under construction at the time.

Even in the brightest sunshine, the church resembles a sheltering cave, so sparsely illuminated is it. The colours on the stained glass windows, the magnificent rose windows, shone all the more brilliantly, almost supernaturally beautiful. ith its 69-metre-high towers, Notre-Dame de Paris was the tallest building in the West until the middle of the 13th century. 422 steps lead up past the high hall with its Gothic pointed arch architecture in three stages to one of the most beautiful views over Paris. From 2025, the Galerie des Chimères will be open again at a height of 46 metres!

Its 56 fantasy birds and mythical creatures are the work of the 19th century. Viollet-le-Duc designed them to replace the medieval gargoyles. These had been removed in the 18th century due to dilapidation.

The Stryge became particularly famous. Half man, half beast, he rests his head on his hands and looks out over Paris. Wonderful views of Paris open up from the tower. Please dream away!