Notre-Dame Cathedral Set To Reopen
Paris’s iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is set to reopen its doors to the public after a five-year restoration project. The cathedral, which was severely damaged in a devastating fire in 2019, has undergone a massive renovation effort, with a price tag of over €700 million.
The restoration project was led by General Jean-Louis Georgelin, who sadly passed away in August 2023. He was replaced by Philippe Jost, who oversaw the completion of the project.
The renovation work involved a team of over 2,000 craftsmen, including masons, carpenters, restorers, roofers, foundry-workers, art experts, sculptors, and engineers. The project provided a significant boost to French arts and crafts, with many trades experiencing an increase in apprenticeships.
One of the most significant challenges faced by the restoration team was making the site safe and dismantling the massive metal scaffolding that had surrounded the spire before the fire. The team also had to decide on the nature of the renovation, whether to faithfully recreate the medieval building and the 19th-century neo-Gothic changes or to use the opportunity to mark the building with a modern imprint.
In the end, the decision was made to stick to the original design, with some concessions to modern materials and safety requirements. The roof timbers, for example, are now protected with sprinklers and partitioning.
The cathedral’s reopening is a significant milestone for Paris and France, and it is expected to attract millions of visitors in the coming years. The restoration project has been hailed as a success, and it is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the team involved.
The cathedral’s interior has been kept a closely guarded secret until now, but it is expected to be revealed to the public for the first time on Friday. The event will be attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has been closely involved in the restoration project.
Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in the world, and its reopening is a significant cultural and historical event. The cathedral has been a symbol of Paris and France for centuries, and its restoration is a testament to the country’s rich history and culture.
