Proceeded by a Gallo-Roman temple to Jupiter, a Christian basilica, and a Romanesque church, construction of Nôtre-Dame de Paris began in 1163 during the reign of Louis VII. The idea was to replace the Romanesque church occupying the site, the Cathedral of St. Etienne, founded by Childebert in 528. Construction bean when Pope Alexander III laid the foundation stone and was completed roughly 200 years later in about 1345.

The choir was completed in 1182; the nave in 1208, and the west front and towers circa 1225-1250. A series of chapels were added to the nave during the period 1235-50, and during 1296-1330 to the apse (Pierre de Chelles and Jean Ravy). The transept crossings were built in 1250-67 by Jean de Chelles and Pierre de Montreuil (also the architect of the Sainte-Chapelle). It was essentially completed according to the original plans.

view the official website for the Nôtre Dame (french only).
view more information on the Nôtre Dame (english).