The world gasped as Notre-Dame was engulfed with flames on Monday. This iconic symbol of France captured world’s attention by showing both its fragility and strength.
Notre-Dame is more than just a Catholic cathedral. For many, it is a Parisian landmark, a French icon and a World Heritage site. As flames engulfed its roof and demolished the spire, a hush fell over the world. This towering architectural masterpiece meant the brink of destruction, but would not crumble.
For many people, a trip to France centers on many iconic landmarks. From traveling to the top of the Eiffel Tower to seeing the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, there are several, traditional must visit locales. Left Bank, Right Bank or the island that is home to the cathedral, this architectural marvel stands proud.
While some people may be familiar with the long, storied history of this Gothic cathedral, some may only recall more popular references. From the classic tale The Hunchback of Notre Dame to numerous features in popular culture, the two towers and rose glass window is instantly identifiable. Like London’s Westminster Abbey or the Capital in Washington, D.C, that visual is just ingrained in people’s collective knowledge.
Today’s tragic events are more saddening because this structure has withstood previous hard times and yet stood tall. In its over 850 year existence, the cathedral survived the French Revolution and World Wars. While stoic and strong, today was a moment in fragility.
PARIS, FRANCE – APRIL 15: Smoke and flames rise from Notre-Dame Cathedral on April 15, 2019 in Paris, France. A fire broke out on Monday afternoon and quickly spread across the building, collapsing the spire. The cause is yet unknown but officials said it was possibly linked to ongoing renovation work. (Photo by Veronique de Viguerie/Getty Images)
While many people will comment on the artifacts inside the building and the religious impact, the cathedral embraced all knowledge and all people. One sometimes overlooked aspect is that this piece of architecture was a visual teaching tool.
For centuries, many people could not read. They relied on visuals to convey a story. The walls of the cathedral told all types of stories to those who entered its doors. From the Last Judgement to the Allegory of alchemy, the pictures were a universal language. As seen in the allegory of alchemy, this iconic landmark invites people to welcome the world of knowledge as people enter its doors.
Given these recent events, the reactions around the world are testament to the open doors that this structure of stone truly was. Crossing its threshold did not require a religious label. Basking in the glow of the Rose Window did not require a ticket. Being embraced by its magnificence came with no label.
As the world recalls personal stories and visit remembrances to Notre-Dame, I, too, recall a visit. During a family trip, we walked down the aisle, lit candles in the alcoves and said a rosary in a pew. But, those quiet moments are only part of my story.
My father always had a sense of adventure and took opportunities that were presented. When we were told that we could climb to the top of the cathedral, that experience could not be passed.
Having been scared of heights, my trepidation was great. Those rickety stairs seemed too precarious. But, there was no backing down. One small step after another until the door opened to bright sky.
While I may have wanted to stay firmly planted on the cathedral floor, that view from above is etched in my memory. With gargoyles lining the roof, I had a sense of calm, a weight had been lifted and possibilities seemed many. In just a few quiet moments, my perspective had changed.
My story may not be unique, but I am not alone. In truth, as people take a slow, deep breath as the burning embers disappear, everyone’s stories and memories are being shared. In tragic moments, people tend to find their commonality.
Although no one would ever wish for such destruction, one positive from this horrendous turn of events is the community created out of loss.
The streets of Paris aren’t filled with riots, they are filled with song. On social media, people aren’t sharing gratitude instead of negative. For at least one small moment, the positives are shining as bright as the destroying flames.
As the world awaits for Paris and Notre-Dame to rebuild, this tragedy is a reminder that life can change in an instant. Even 850 year old churches can be reduced to its bare bones. Still, the impressions that are made, even in the unexpected moments, are forever.