KC On The Go

Ah, Notre-Dame de Paris, meaning “Our Lady of Paris,” that beautiful, historical monument in the middle of Paris. What more can be said that hasn’t already been said in the last few weeks? Well, I figured I’d use this week’s post to add my 2 cents. I know I’m a little late with this blog post but I’m actually pleased that life got in the way a bit and delayed it. If I had posted it two weeks ago when it was fresh in everyone’s mind, it may have been a bit of overload. Now, the world’s had time to sit with it a bit, digest it and, let’s be completely honest, forget it. And that’s a problem because it shouldn’t be forgotten. I’m certain it’s not forgotten to the people in Paris who pass by it everyday.

I was in complete shock when I heard the news and my heart was absolutely broken watching the footage of this stunning piece of Gothic architecture collapse. All while the Parisians, and tourists, looked on also in shock, tears in their eyes. The only thought going through my mind, ‘Oh, what the people of Paris must be feeling right now.’

Since then, we’ve had some hopeful news emerge out of the wreckage. Not all was lost and the damage could, in fact, have been much worse. Plans are already underway to restore the church back to its former glory. That in no way makes up for what was lost at the hands of the blaze. The spire, re-erected in the 19th century restoration, as we know is gone along with the roof, pieces of which date back to the 13th century. There was some water damage done to the centuries old organ, probably the most famous organ in the world and the largest in France.

But, I’m not French and I’m not religious, you may be thinking, “Why do you care?” Valid question – why does the world care? When you get down to it, this transcends religion or cultural significance – this is about history, a history we share as members of the human race. It’s about who we were and how we came to be where we’re at today. Now, a piece of history has been lost forever. So, this loss to Paris really is a loss to the world.  

 

This beautiful, breathtaking, awe-inspiring cathedral took nearly 200 years to build beginning in the 12th century. Can you imagine, 200 years?! Knowing that makes the fact that part of this magnificent structure was wiped away in a matter of hours even more heartbreaking. All that hard work! The two towers held the distinction of being the tallest structures in Paris until the completion of the Eiffel Tower. To think of the hour upon hour of work carving figures in the stone. This all in the medieval period of history, well before our modern inventions. I can only imagine the wonder 12th and 13th century Parisians must have felt as this mammoth structure came to be in the center of their city. It gives me goosebumps just thinking about it!

Europe’s deep and rich history has always been one of the attractions of the continent for me. I think I have an old soul and the United States, while wonderful in its own right, just isn’t old enough for me. And I live in one of the oldest parts! I seek out cobblestone streets, gaslights and vaulted cathedral ceilings the way a moth seeks a flame. Nothing lights up my eyes and inspires awe quite like seeing a building with the year 1165 engraved into it.

 

When I was in college I took two history courses, the first was required and because of my professor, one of the better courses I took freshman year. The second was elective with the same exact professor. The subject matter – Medieval history. Well, my professor was just amazing, there was no question of not taking another course with her, particularly with that subject matter. And I just ate it up. Every week I sat and listened enraptured by the ancient history that was enthusiastically leaping forth from her. It was difficult to listen and NOT feel the same passion for this period of history.

 

So, as a lover of history, particularly European, this hit hard. Who hasn’t heard of Notre-Dame, made famous throughout the world by Victor Hugo and his hunchback? From the gorgeous stained glass rose windows to the imposing towers adorned with gargoyles, it’s a legend amongst men. I’ve been to Paris a few times. Touring Notre-Dame was right at the top of my list on my very first trip. I remember walking through overwhelmed by the beauty. I’ve seen other historic European cathedrals before and since but this one has stuck with me. It’s difficult to imagine that anyone who’s stepped foot in this sacred space and witnessed the incomparable beauty, and even many who haven’t gotten the chance, not feeling the unimaginable loss.

The significance of this horrible event is far reaching though. What’s extremely disturbing is that I fear our past is threatened all throughout the world. With aging infrastructure and not enough money for restoration, we are at risk of losing a lot more of our history. The Pyramids of Egypt, the Roman Colosseum, The Great Wall of China, the list goes on and on. All of these monuments should be treasured and preserved to inspire the same wonder and awe in future generations.  

So, now you all know about my penchant for history. What excites and inspires you? I’d love to hear about it.

Until next time – cheers!