Notre-Dame de Paris

Timeline

1. 1163–1182Île de la Cité · ParisBishop Maurice de Sully of Paris oversaw the demolition of the old Romanesque church and laid the foundation; the early nave and transepts used four-part rib vaults and pointed arches, establishing the early French Gothic layout.
2. c. 1190–1220Notre-Dame de Paris · ParisLater works raised the nave and adjusted the proportions of the transepts and facades; the three portals of the west facade and the early rose window scheme took shape, becoming the focus of the city skyline.
3. c. 1220–1250Notre-Dame de Paris · ParisOuter flying buttresses took the lateral thrust of the vaults, allowing the high windows and lancet triplets to be enlarged; the north and south rose windows and narrative stained glass were installed, significantly changing the interior light.
4. c. 1250–1345Notre-Dame de Paris · ParisThe twin towers of the west facade and the upper structure were completed in succession, closing the main medieval building phase; thereafter the spire, gargoyles and other features underwent multiple alterations and restorations.