The construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral began in 1163 and was largely completed by around 1345, taking nearly 182 years to build. The initial major construction phases included the choir finished by 1182, the nave and aisles through the late 12th century, and the completion of the iconic towers and facade by the mid-13th century. Although there were modifications and restorations later, the core Gothic structure took about two centuries to complete, which was typical for large medieval cathedral projects.