In the shadow of Notre Dame

Improbable Walks, Season 6, Episode 1: In this episode, we stroll in the shadow of the great Cathedral Notre Dame, looking at narrow medieval streets on the Island of the City which survived the great upheaval of Haussmann renovations. You can see rue Chanoinesse on the map--that's our focus. And a wonderful gargoyle drawing by Charles Méryon for "The Vampire", 1853--he took that famous photo the same year! A narrow view of the spire, looking down the unbelievably tiny rue des Chantres--you can see part of the 1958 Fernand Pouillon building on the right side of my photo. Next, one of my many attempts to photograph wisteria in the rare Paris sunlight. Finally, my favourite photo of Notre Dame as she bravely stood the day after the 2019 fire--photo by Linda Hervieux. And if you want an update on the Grand Dame herself after the restoration, here's my friend Heather's guide to everything you need to know for a visit.