Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris)

Victor Hugo's novel and the hugely touching characterization of the hunchback, Quasimodo, has served the cathedral's popularity well, but no attention seeking was necessary at all. No measure was spared in conceiving of a church that would reflect the capital's prestige, and the result proved to be incredible. The lofty archways, rose windows of stained glass, ornate spires, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses, and the indispensable Gargoyles all constitute the essence of Gothic at its most exquisite. A witness to historic events, an inspiration for artists, and a major landmark, Notre Dame de Paris deserves a place in anyone's itinerary.