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Constructed almost a thousand years ago, Notre-Dame was built long before the founding of any country in North America, South America, or Africa. This deep historical context adds to its power, making it not only a standout example of medieval craftsmanship but also a beacon that draws millions to it from around the world.
Layers of History and Restoration
The history of Notre-Dame is rich and layered, marked by various restoration efforts that have transformed it over the centuries. O’Brien points out that the recent restoration is just the latest chapter in a long narrative filled with changes. Each generation has contributed to the cathedral, from the 19th-century modifications by architects like Eugène Viollet-le-Duc to more contemporary updates.