Notre Dame de Mantes

At the time of its construction in the 12th-13th century, the Collegiate Church in Mantes-la-Jolie reflected the power of the French royalty against the Norman Dukes. The church is famous for its striking resemblance to Notre-Dame de Paris, although it is of a much smaller scale. It was built during the same timeframe as its more famous counterpart and, although not confirmed, historians believe the two used the same architects and craftsmen.

It is said that the town got its name because King Henri IV wrote to Gabrielle d’Estrées, his mistress, “I come to Mantes, my Pretty,” and so it stuck as Mantes-la-Jolie.Read more