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What do gargoyle statues represent?
In any case, gargoyles were used as symbols, and could be interpreted in many ways. They could have represented the souls condemned for their sins, whom was therefore the entrance to church forbidden. The price for sinning, although they were spared from eternal damnation, would be to be turned to stone.
When were gargoyles added to Notre Dame?
The Original Gargoyles Under Bishop Maurice de Sully, Notre-Dame’s construction started in the 1160s and lasted nearly 200 years. At the start of this endeavor, gargoyles were not a staple of French architecture.
What was the purpose of gargoyles on cathedrals during the Middle Ages?
The most important purpose of medieval gargoyles was water-drainage from the roof. For this purpose, gargoyles were placed on the edges of the roofs and could be more than one. This served in quickly draining the rainwater, thus decreasing the pressure on the roof and saving it from damage.
What was the purpose of having gargoyles en buildings?
The precise purpose of gargoyles was to act as a spout to convey water from the upper part of a building or roof gutter and away from the side of walls or foundations, thereby helping to prevent water from causing damage to masonry and mortar.
What is the spiritual meaning of a gargoyle?
Many considered gargoyles the spiritual protectors of churches as well, scaring off demons and evil spirits. Some historians believe gargoyles were inspired from pagan eras and were used to make churches feel more familiar to new Christians.
Why are there gargoyles on Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris?
The gargoyles’ main purpose is very practical. As rain water runs down the roofs of Notre-Dame de Paris, it needs to drain off without dripping down the walls and potentially damaging them. By evacuating rain water, the gargoyles protect the cathedral and protect the stone from damage caused by excessive runoff.
What are the names of the gargoyles at Notre Dame?
Victor, Hugo, and Laverne are major characters in Disney ‘s 1996 animated feature film, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. They are a trio of anthropomorphic gargoyles belonging to Notre Dame. Since Quasimodo ‘s arrival in the bell tower as an infant, the gargoyles have acted as his best friends and guardians.
What does Notre Dame Cathedral symbolize?
Notre-Dame is a symbol of Paris and the most visited site in France. This cathedral is famous for its huge towers that house enormous bells, its gargoyles and fantastic sculptures and the Hunchback ! Located in the 4th district, in the eastern part of the Ile de la Cité, Notre-Dame is the cathedral of the Paris Archdiocese.
Is Notre Dame Cathedral set in stone?
Despite the foundation of the structure, nothing is fully set in stone. Notre Dame has lasted for centuries and not many buildings can say that. Among a few others, we have Stonehenge, the Egyptian pyramids, and Notre Dame. It truly is a gem.