After a devastating fire in April 2019, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reopen on December 8, marking the culmination of a monumental restoration effort. The reopening will be commemorated with two Catholic masses, celebrating the return of the 861-year-old landmark.
The restoration was powered by €846 million in donations from 340,000 supporters across 150 countries. Over 2,000 artisans contributed to the project, which included the replacement of 14,000 square feet of stone, the cleaning of 8,000 organ pipes, and the installation of 1,500 solid oak pews. The cathedral’s stained glass windows, marble mosaics, and frescoes were also meticulously cleaned and restored.
Among the highlights, the famous spire now stands tall with a golden rooster replaced by a phoenix, symbolizing rebirth, while the cathedral’s twelve apostles and four evangelists sculptures will return early next year. The restored bells in the northern belfry have already been tested ahead of the reopening.
French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the restoration as a testament to resilience and heritage, stating, “The decision to rebuild Notre Dame was about preserving where we come from and what we are.”
Notre Dame is expected to welcome up to 40,000 visitors daily, once again standing as a beacon of history and architectural splendor.
