One of the best and easily recognisable examples of Gothic architecture. Built between the 1163 and 1345 centuries this was an attempt by the church to fill the coffers as a larger structure meant more worshippers at donation time. It has been enlarged twice in its history. The magnificent stained glass rose windows were removed during WWII and cunningly hidden in sand to prevent them being destroyed or taken by the Nazis. The church also provided the setting for Victor Hugo's famous work The Hunchback of Notre Dame . No visits are allowed during religious services, but it is open every day. The garden behind provides a leafy spot to admire the flying buttresses built to support the immense walls.