Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris !!!

The first landmark we went to when we got to Paris was the Notre Dame Cathedral and it was insane.  I never realized how big it was and how detailed the architecture was going to be.  It's definitely worth checking out in person because these pictures don't do it justice.  The cathedral was completed in 1250 and is considered the "World Ambassador of Gothic Cathedrals." 

Mid-august was full on tourist season in Paris so there were a lot of people hitting up the big sights.  Luckily the line was moving pretty fast. 

All the statues and Gothic designs were amazing up close and personal!

Another big part of the design was all the stain glass windows telling famous stories of the bible and of the saints.  The full resolution pics make awesome desktop wallpapers too!

Dedication to Joan of Arc!

These models showed how the cathedral was designed and how the building process was done. 

More detailed carvings and the candles that people were lighting.

Once inside you can see and feel how grand the whole cathedral is and really appreciate the intricate architectural design.  Truly amazing!

Even the doors looked cool!

Here's the view from the back where there was a peaceful little garden away from the crowds. 

Its interesting how they had all these crazy looking gargoyles guarding the cathedral.  You can see how they slowly weathered away throughout the years.  Dope!