Were Replacement Trees for Notre Dame Planted in 1800?

Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, suffered a devastating fire on April 15, 2019. The world watched in horror as flames engulfed the historic cathedral, destroying its spire and roof. Fortunately, the main structure survived, and efforts are underway to rebuild and restore the cathedral to its former glory. One question that has been raised in the aftermath of the fire is whether replacement trees for Notre Dame were planted in 1800.

The History of Notre Dame’s Trees

Notre Dame Cathedral is located on ?le de la Cité, a small island in the Seine River. The site where the cathedral stands has a long history that dates back to pre-Roman times. The area was once a forest, and the trees on the property were very important to the early inhabitants of the region. The cathedral itself was built in the 12th century, and over the centuries, many of the trees on the property were cut down to make way for construction.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, there was a movement in Europe to plant trees in urban areas to improve air quality and provide green spaces for people to enjoy. It is true that replacement trees were planted on the grounds of Notre Dame in 1800 as part of this movement.

The Trees and the Fire

The trees that were planted on the grounds of Notre Dame in 1800 were mostly chestnuts and lindens. These trees were situated around the perimeter of the cathedral, and they had grown to be quite large over the past two centuries. Unfortunately, the fire that engulfed the cathedral in 2019 was so intense that it damaged and destroyed many of the trees on the property.

It is estimated that about one-third of the trees on the property were destroyed in the fire. The mature trees that were lost had provided shade and beauty to the historic site for over 200 years. As a result, there have been discussions about whether to replant the trees on the property or to leave the area open and unobstructed.

The Future of the Trees at Notre Dame

Many people feel that it is important to replant the trees on the grounds of Notre Dame. These trees have been a part of the history and character of the site for over two centuries, and they have become an important part of the identity of the cathedral. Replanting the trees would also provide a sense of continuity and renewal after the devastation of the fire. It would be a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for the people of France and the world.

On the other hand, there are some who feel that the site should be left open and unobstructed. They argue that the trees were not original to the site and that replanting them would be a sentimental gesture that does not really add to the beauty or function of the cathedral. They also point out that the trees could be a fire hazard and could obstruct views of the cathedral.

The Importance of Notre Dame Cathedral

Regardless of whether or not replacement trees are planted on the grounds of Notre Dame, the cathedral remains an important symbol of French culture and history. The cathedral has survived wars, revolutions, and centuries of change, and it continues to inspire and amaze people from all over the world. The fire was a tragedy, but it also brought people together in a shared sense of loss and determination to rebuild and restore the cathedral.

In conclusion, replacement trees for Notre Dame were planted in 1800 as part of a movement to improve urban air quality and provide green spaces for people to enjoy. The trees were an important part of the identity and character of the cathedral, and their loss in the 2019 fire was a devastating blow. There are arguments on both sides of the issue of whether or not to replant the trees, but ultimately, the future of the cathedral is what is most important. The world will be watching with interest and anticipation as the rebuilding and restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral continue in the years to come.