Paris [France], December 7: After five years of meticulous restoration, the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reopen its doors to the public on Sunday. The Gothic masterpiece, severely damaged in a catastrophic fire on April 15, 2019, has been painstakingly rebuilt to reclaim its place as a symbol of French heritage and global history.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who pledged to restore the cathedral within five years, made a final visit to the site on November 29, ahead of the reopening.
A Monumental Restoration Effort
The restoration project aimed to achieve three key objectives:
- Enhance the beauty of Notre-Dame and its surroundings.
- Adapt the site and neighborhood to climate change.
- Improve the experience for millions of visitors from around the world.
President Macron lauded the collective effort of thousands of artisans, architects, and specialists involved in the project.
“This once-in-a-century project has been conducted in extraordinary conditions. It required the collaboration of France’s best experts and specialists. It was a challenge many deemed impossible, yet one we have met,” he said.
Macron extended his gratitude to the team of woodworkers, masons, metalworkers, sculptors, art restorers, and others who worked tirelessly to restore Notre-Dame to its former glory.
Preserving History While Rebuilding
The restoration faithfully adhered to the original design of the cathedral. Key architectural elements, such as the vaulted ceilings, the Grand Organ, and the medieval roof structure (nicknamed “the forest”), were meticulously reconstructed. The roof structure, which served as the epicenter of the fire, was a centerpiece of the restoration.
Macron also visited restored sections of the cathedral, including:
- Saint Marcel’s Chapel and the chancel screen, brought back to life with vibrant colors by dedicated artists.
- The base of the spire, a symbolic structure representing Notre-Dame’s rebirth, rebuilt exactly as it once stood.
Funding and Global Support
The restoration cost an estimated 700 million euros ($737 million), according to Rebuilding Notre Dame de Paris, the public body overseeing the project. Donations poured in from 340,000 donors across 150 countries, raising a staggering 846 million euros ($891 million) to support the effort.
A Symbol of Resilience
The restoration of Notre-Dame is a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of cultural heritage. President Macron emphasized its significance:
“The rebirth of Notre-Dame is not just about restoring a building but preserving a symbol of history, faith, and unity for future generations.”
The reopening of Notre-Dame marks a triumphant moment for Paris and the world, welcoming visitors once again to marvel at its grandeur and history.
