We decided to start by visiting the Louvre. It was early in the morning and a little overcast. The old palace grounds were exquisite, although I cannot say I cared for the modern I. M. Pei glass pyramid rising so incongruously from the center. We happily marched right up but were promptly stopped by a gendarme holding his hand up sternly and hollering, “FERMEZ!” Turns out their Tuesdays are like our Sundays used to be — only more so. I learned that all the museums were closed. So we decided to go without any real plan. I love that Paris is such a walking city. It is clean, delicate, feminine, and brimming with history. Every corner holds some visual delight. Strolling through the Tuilleries Garden, we ambled along the banks of the Seine to Notre Dame. Nineteenth century American travel author Bayard Taylor said it best:
“Walking at random through the streets, we came by chance upon the Cathedral of Notre Dame. I shall long remember my first impression of the scene within. The lofty gothic ceiling arched far above my head and through the stained windows the light came but dimly — it was all still, solemn, and religious.”
Inside the cathedral it was so blackened from years of incense it took several minutes for my eyes to adjust. I read that construction began in 1163 and was not completed until 1272. During that time sculptors, carpenters, masons, and glassblowers all worked relentlessly under the supervision of seasoned architects. Dedicated to “Our Lady” Mary, the Mother of God, it has been one of the main symbols of Paris and France since it was built. Outside gargoyles served as both gutter spouts and sentinels on her edifice. We wanted to climb the steps outside to the famous bell tower but RIGHT as we got up next in line they closed it off for the day. I was just sick and hollered, “Sanctuary!” which no one else seemed to think was funny. Next we passed through the Gallo Ruins, the Latin Quarter and the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. My good sandals were in tatters but I decided what a way for them to go … spending the day walking all over the most beautiful city in the world.
