After a devastating fire in April 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reopen its doors to the public on December 7, marking a momentous occasion for France and the world. French President Emmanuel Macron visited the masterpiece on Friday to tour the newly restored interior.
Notre-Dame de Paris.
Dernière visite de chantier avant la réouverture.https://t.co/YDlhum5by8— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) November 29, 2024
Notre-Dame de Paris, a Gothic architectural marvel, has stood as a symbol of faith and artistry since its construction began in 1163. Its iconic flying buttresses, rib vaulting, and stunning stained-glass windows have inspired countless works of art, including Victor Hugo’s famous novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.
A view of the nave of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral in Paris, on November 29, 2024. The Notre-Dame Cathedral is set to re-open early December 2024, with a planned weekend of ceremonies on December 7 and 8, 2024, five years after the 2019 fire which ravaged the world heritage landmark and toppled its spire. Some 250 companies and hundreds of experts were mobilised for the five-year restoration costing hundreds of millions of euros. STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN/Pool via REUTERS
The fire on April 15, 2019, consumed Notre-Dame’s roof and spire. While the cause remains uncertain, possibilities include an electrical fault or a lit cigarette. Firefighters managed to save the bell towers and façade, but the extensive damage required a massive global fundraising effort. Over €840 million was donated, exceeding the restoration needs.
Over the past five years, thousands of skilled craftspeople have meticulously rebuilt the cathedral’s roof and spire, restored its blackened stones and paintings, and refurbished furniture. Emergency responders had saved priceless relics during the fire, preserving the cathedral’s historical treasures.
FILE PHOTO: Sparks fill the air as Paris Fire brigade members spray water to extinguish flames as the Notre Dame Cathedral burns in Paris, France, April 15, 2019. REUTERS/Philippe Wojazer/File Photo
Reopening Ceremonies
The reopening will begin next Saturday with a speech by President Macron, followed by a ceremonial knocking on the cathedral’s doors by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich. Inside, ancient psalms will be sung, and the cathedral’s historic organ will resonate once more after being blessed. This invitation-only event will also feature a public broadcast and celebration in the cathedral square.
Masses will commence on December 8, beginning an eight-day series of thanksgiving services dedicated to donors, firefighters, and artisans who contributed to the restoration. Public access will be limited initially, with visitors required to book tickets online or queue on-site.
A view of the heart of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral in Paris, on November 29, 2024. The Notre-Dame Cathedral is set to re-open early December 2024, with a planned weekend of ceremonies on December 7 and 8, 2024, five years after the 2019 fire which ravaged the world heritage landmark and toppled its spire. Some 250 companies and hundreds of experts were mobilised for the five-year restoration costing hundreds of millions of euros. STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN/Pool via REUTERS
From December, visitors will be able to book free same-day or next-day tickets online, while group tours will begin after the New Year. Officials expect 14–15 million visitors annually, though debates continue over whether to charge entry fees. For now, entry remains free, respecting the Church’s stance.
