After more than five years of extensive restoration, Notre-Dame de Paris is set to unveil its majestic transformation.
On Friday, November 29, French President Emmanuel Macron visited the cathedral’s construction site for a final inspection, marking a significant milestone in the restoration process following the catastrophic fire of 2019.
His two-hour tour was broadcast live, showcasing the breathtaking progress made on the iconic monument, set to officially reopen on the weekend of December 7-8.
The fire, which ravaged the cathedral on April 15, 2019, caused extensive damage to the spire and roof, leaving the church in a state of disrepair.
Macron’s visit allowed him to view the restored interiors for the first time, including the rebuilt timber-framed roof, reconstructed using oak wood from hundreds of trees.
The president was accompanied by artisans, architects, business leaders, and donors, all of whom were acknowledged for their dedication in restoring the cathedral to its former glory.
The restoration has been a monumental task, with workers focused on repairing the damaged timber framework, nicknamed “the forest” for its intricate latticework, which was severely damaged by the flames.
Macron’s visit included an inspection of the restored nave, where the once-ruined vaults now gleam with freshly renovated stonework.
The rebuilding process has been challenging, but it has also been a symbol of resilience, as experts note that the pace of reconstruction has been remarkable considering the constraints of modern safety regulations and the need to preserve the historical accuracy of the structure.
While the cathedral’s interior will be ready to host visitors and worshippers beginning December 8, some parts of the restoration are still ongoing.
The scaffolding at the base of the newly restored spire will remain in place until 2025, while the east side of the monument will continue to be under scaffolding for another three years.
Philippe Jost, the chief architect overseeing the project, confirmed that this extended timeline is necessary to ensure the full restoration is completed with the utmost care and precision.
Despite these ongoing efforts, the completion of the cathedral’s restoration serves as a hopeful sign for France and the world.
Reverand Olivier Ribadeau-Dumas, rector of Notre-Dame, expressed his sentiment that “Notre-Dame’s reconstruction is a sign of hope for everyone.”
This ambitious project is not only a testament to the expertise and dedication of the craftsmen and women involved but also a beacon of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
The grand reopening of Notre-Dame marks a momentous occasion, both for the people of France and for the global community. As a symbol of French culture and heritage, the cathedral’s rebirth signals a new chapter in its centuries-old history.
