Above: A gargoyle looks over Paris and the Seine River, with the Eiffel Tower far in the background.

Scaling the skinny 400-step spiral staircase in the west buttress of Notre Dame Cathedral is not easy. It is a fascinating, historical experience, and well worth the wait in line.

First stop is the chimera gallery – chimera meaning animal – which features an array of mythical creatures. At 46 meters, or 151 feet, above the ground you’re already above much of the Paris skyline.

The Chimera gallery is the same height as the Cathedrals main roof. The bronze statues visible are some of the 12 apostles.

The roof of Notre Dame Cathedral and apostle statues, July 10, 2013.

After crossing the gallery more stairs are in store. The top of the belfry is an impressive 69 meters, 226 feet, above ground. Here a full 360 degree view of paris is attained, as well as a feeling of helplessness if there were to be an emergency.

The roof of the previous picture can be seen leading into the cathedrals spire with the apostle statues. The Seine river winds out of the frame. The only thing more impressive then the view is realizing the tower is roughly 800 years old!

The very top of Notre Dame Cathedral, looking west.