Books like Notre-Dame de Paris

This is a heavy book in more ways than one - it weights about 6 pounds - and the author immediately plunges into the architecture of the cathedral with the problem with illumination despite the rose windows since internally, it is a dark building. This book goes extensively into the architectural aspects of this cathedral - each historical phase and detail if the knowledge is available.The author moves through the history of Paris, the retreat behind fortification ramparts on the Isle de La Cite. Remains of the wall substructure have been found as well as the foundation remains of an earlier cathedral from the pre-Merovingian period (possibly a former converted Roman temple) or from the late 300's A.D. When the decision was made to replace that ancient cathedral, the architectural plans had to include making sure that the old cathedral remained in use even as the new one was rising around it. Several different architects continued the construction over the century of the major work - some known, some completely unknown save hints of their influence. There is obvious differences in some styles - for example, the column capitals - due to newer directions in architecture and head architect as well as re-using of older pieces. Lavishly filled with black-and-white photos as well as color photos which provide closeup details of some areas that the average tourist could only see from a distance. Building footprints which includes line drawings and plans of the cathedral before the 1845 renovations and after. It was those major renovations that brought the weakened and mutilated cathedral - neglected for decades as well as damaged during the Revolution of 1798 - back to being a gorgeous French treasure. It was due to watching the disastrous burning of the roof and steeple that made me want to see if the local library had a book on this UNESCO heritage site. It did and this coffee table book - it is nearly 18" tall - is, in my opinion, an excellent resource for someone looking for how the cathedral used to look. 2019-067