The Church of Notre-Dame is the iconic epicenter of Dijon. With its narrow pillars and grand arches, the 13th-century Gothic structure haunts a square in the heart of the city. Peruse the artistic treasures dotted around the large church to learn about its rich history.
Gaze up at the daunting structure from the small plaza. Capture photos of its Gothic façade with a red portal and large arcades on the lower of three tiers. Admire the arcaded galleries on the upper levels with more than 50 decorative gargoyles adding to its already impressive dimensions.
Enter the spacious nave and make your way to the statue of Notre-Dame de Bon-Espoir, a wooden statue that dates back to the 11th century. It is among the oldest Virgin statues in the country. Its baby Jesus disappeared during the French Revolution and the Madonna’s hands are missing. Due to its historical importance, it is one of the most intriguing artifacts in the church.
With your left hand, stroke the owl carved into the north side of the chapel. This is believed to bring good luck. With unknown origin, the owl has been gradually worn down by the touch of those seeking good fortune. The owl sculpture is ingrained in local culture and is now the symbol of the city. Look for the owl on brass plaques at famous sites along the Owl’s Trail through Dijon.
Admire the five stained-glass windows in the northern transept. They have survived from the 1200s and tell the stories of St. Peter and St. Andrew. A 19th-century artist used the original panes as inspiration for more than 50 new stained-glass windows.
Work commenced on the church in about 1230. The Church of Notre-Dame is in the center of Dijon’s old town on a plaza of the same name and just north of the Square des Ducs. Enjoy the countless cafés and boutiques in this central area of the city. Make sure to visit the nearby Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy.
