Her spires reach high into the sky. Her stained glass windows reflect a beautiful, seemingly dancing rainbow of indescribable colors. The gargoyles rain down their penetrating stares as they perch high above in the Parisian sky. We were in Paris last May, and the enormity of Notre Dame’s magnificent cathedral is still fresh in my memory. I think this is why the news of April 15 cut me to the quick and left me with such a feeling of heavy sadness.

Sometimes, as Americans, we aren’t able to grasp the importance of certain iconic places the way other parts of the world can. It isn’t our fault, really. In the looking glass of history, we’re still teenagers, stumbling and bumbling our way through the awkwardness of finding our own cultural identity.

Photo by Tiffany Boyce

Many Europeans figured that out well before the Pilgrims found Plymouth Rock. Their cultural identity is strong, and they’re proud of the “people” they are.

Notre-Dame de Paris, which literally translates to “Our Lady of Paris,” has stood a faithful watch over the people of Paris for the better part of 800 years. Completed in 1260, this vast cathedral has seen two World Wars and the French Revolution, as well as the Coronation of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and his marriage ceremony to Marie-Louis of Austria. The Cathedral is the ultimate symbol of France, with maybe the exception of the Eiffel Tower (which wasn’t opened until 1889). However, with more than 11 million visitors a year, Notre Dame is the most visited landmark in the entire country.

Photo by Tiffany Boyce

Notre Dame is the most prolific example of gothic architecture and was used as the basis for Victor Hugo’s novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Not only is the building beautiful to look at and an architectural feat, but as an important part of the Catholic Church, Notre Dame houses three cherished artifacts in the spire. The crown of thorns Jesus wore during his crucifixion and relics from Saint Denis and Saint Genevieve, both patron saints of Paris. According to the press at the time of this writing, most of the historical artifacts and religious relics were saved.

Notre Dame is Paris, and I’m so desperately sad for the Parisians as they mourn their beautiful monument and icon of this unbelievable city.

In true fashion of a culture who has figured out who they are, a culture that’s been through the highs and lows of civilization like these old-world countries have, they gathered on the steps overlooking the cathedral and sang “Ave Maria” last night. Their voices lifting through sadness and collectively deciding that Notre Dame will be restored again.

Paris, our hearts and prayers and thoughts are with you.