Preceeded by a Gallo-Roman temple to Jupiter, a Christian basilica, and a Romanesque church, construction of Notre-Dame de Paris began in 1163 during the reign of Louis VII, with the laying of the foundation stone by Pope Alexander III. It was the idea of Bishop Maurice de Sully (c.1100–1196) to replace the Romanesque church occupying the site, the Cathedral of St. Etienne, founded by Childebert in 528. (Some accounts claim that there were two churches existing on the site, one to the Virgin Mary, the other to St. Stephen). Construction was completed roughly 200 years later in about 1345.

The choir was completed in 1182; the nave in 1208, and the west front and towers c.1225-1250. A series of chapels were added to the nave during the period 1235-50, and during 1296-1330 to the apse (Pierre de Chelles and Jean Ravy). The transept crossings were built in 1250-67 by Jean de Chelles and Pierre de Montreuil (also the architect of Sainte-Chapelle). It was essentially completed according to the original plans.