The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, a symbol of French history and culture, is set to grace the world once again. After the devastating fire in 2019 that caused extensive structural damage, including a collapsed roof, an arduous restoration process has been underway.

Witness the Rebirth of a Cultural Icon

Restoration Timeline and Challenges

The in-depth restoration process took a staggering 2,000 days of labor and involved over 2,000 people. The source of the fire remains a mystery, with investigators suspecting it might have been an electrical issue or a lit cigarette. Despite the setbacks caused by COVID in 2020, workers managed to remove the charred scaffolding from a previous repair project, a crucial first step. In 2019, efforts were made to restore the cathedral's legendary organ, which is France's largest musical instrument. Although not damaged by the fire, it was coated in toxic debris. By 2021, project managers selected the first historic French oak trees from Bercé forest in the Loire region to begin rebuilding the structure's signature spire. Master craftspeople also worked on securing the structure, fashioning a giant temporary "umbrella" to protect the interior during further repairs.

Restoration of Stained Glass Windows

In 2022, expert glassmakers and locksmiths from across the country and even abroad arrived to restore the cathedral's famous stained glass windows. These windows are a true masterpiece, adding to the cathedral's ethereal beauty. The restoration process was meticulous, ensuring that each piece was restored to its former glory.

Pivotal Moments in 2023

In 2023, several significant events took place. The sudden death of General Jean-Louis Georgelin, who was selected to oversee the project, was a great loss. President Macron honored him as the "greatest soldier" in championing the restoration. That same year, a golden rooster, an official symbol of France, was placed atop the new spire. It was fashioned to resemble a phoenix, symbolizing the cathedral's rebirth. Religious relics were placed inside the golden animal, serving as a time capsule.

The Final Stretch and Reopening Ceremony

February 2024 saw the removal of the longstanding scaffolding, marking the final stretch of the restoration. The reopening ceremony on December 7 is expected to be a grand event, with more than 50 heads of state attending, including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. The U.K.'s Prince William will also be in attendance, standing in for his father, King Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment. After the ceremony, the cathedral will hold two daily masses for eight consecutive days, with some masses open to the public. The cathedral is free to visit and will remain open indefinitely, allowing people from all over the world to witness its beauty.