After a devastating fire five years ago, Notre-Dame Cathedral in France is finally ready to reopen its doors. The fire, which occurred on April 15, 2019, destroyed the wooden roof and iconic spire of the cathedral. Firefighters worked tirelessly to save the structure, and now, after extensive restoration and reconstruction work, Notre-Dame is set to welcome visitors once again.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently took a televised walking tour of the cathedral, showcasing the stunning new interior. The exterior of the cathedral is still a work in progress, with cranes and scaffolding surrounding the building. However, inside, the cathedral has been completely transformed. The interior is bright and clean, with no trace of the fire that left it in ruins.
Restoration efforts included the removal of charred debris, the cleaning of toxic lead dust from the melted roof, and the restoration of the cathedral’s artworks and stained glass windows. Craftsmen also rebuilt the roof and spire using hand-hewn oak beams, just like medieval artisans did centuries ago. The grand organ was refurbished, historic paintings were restored, and new bells were installed.
President Macron expressed his gratitude to the craftsmen who worked on the project, as well as the firefighters who saved the cathedral and the donors who funded the restoration. The reopening of Notre-Dame is seen as a symbol of hope and resilience after the tragic fire.
Visitors will soon be able to book a specific entry time to visit Notre-Dame, with reservations available on the cathedral’s website and a mobile app. Admission will remain free, but only 2,700 visitors will be allowed inside at a time. Before the fire, Notre-Dame welcomed millions of visitors each year, and that number is expected to rise after the reopening.
The cause of the fire has not been definitively determined, but it is believed to have been an accident, possibly due to an unextinguished cigarette butt or an electrical issue. Despite the tragedy, Notre-Dame has been restored to its former glory, and visitors can once again experience the beauty and history of this iconic cathedral.
