Which Paris cathedral was begun in 1163 on the Île de la Cité?

Notre-Dame de Paris was begun in 1163 on the Île de la Cité.

Bishop Maurice de Sully initiated the rebuilding of Paris's cathedral in the Gothic style. Construction continued for roughly two centuries, and later generations altered and restored parts of the building. Its position on the island in the Seine placed it at the historical center of Paris.

The cathedral is known for its twin western towers, rose windows, rib vaults, flying buttresses, and sculpted portals. These features helped make it a major example of French Gothic architecture. Victor Hugo's 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame also increased public interest in the neglected medieval building.

A major fire in April 2019 destroyed the spire and much of the roof, but the main stone structure survived. Restoration followed, and the cathedral reopened to visitors and worshippers in 2024.