After more than five years of intensive reconstruction work, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has finally reopened its doors to the public. On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron visited the iconic cathedral and was awestruck by its new grandeur. The cathedral, which was devastated by a fire in 2019, now boasts of crisp and soaring ceilings, and restored stonework that has erased the somber memories of the tragic incident.
The world watched in awe as images of the site visit were broadcasted live, showcasing the interior of the cathedral as it would have been in medieval times. The wide and spacious interior was filled with bright light, illuminating the vibrant colors of the stained-glass windows. It was a sight to behold, and it marked an important milestone in the restoration process.
While the exterior of the cathedral is still a construction site with scaffolding and cranes, the renovated interior is nothing short of breathtaking. The ripped-open ceilings, which once left charred piles of debris, have now been replaced with new stonework, carefully pieced together to repair and fill the wounds. The delicate golden angels now once again gaze down from the centerpiece of the rebuilt ceilings, soaring above the transept.
The bright and creamy limestone walls look brand new, stripped not only of the dust from the fire but also of the grime that had accumulated over centuries. This restoration process has truly brought the cathedral back to its former glory, attracting millions of worshippers and visitors alike.
As President Macron entered through the cathedral’s giant and intricately carved front doors, he was filled with wonder and admiration as he gazed upon the beautifully restored interior. Accompanied by his wife, Brigitte, the archbishop of Paris, and other officials, Macron marveled at the finesse of the craftsmanship and the dedication of the workers.
The process of restoration involved a mix of modern and traditional techniques. Powerful vacuum cleaners were first used to remove the toxic dust released during the fire, which had melted the cathedral’s lead roofs. Fine layers of latex were then sprayed onto the surfaces, and a few days later, removed, along with the dirt. Cleaning gels were also used to remove the accumulated grime from the painted walls, revealing their vibrant colors once again.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the restoration is the use of traditional carpentry techniques. Like their medieval counterparts, carpenters have worked by hand, hewing giant oak beams to rebuild the roof and spire that collapsed during the fire. These beams bear the marks of the carpenters’ handiwork, with dents made by hand axes, adding a unique touch to the reconstruction process. It is estimated that approximately 2,000 oak trees were felled to rebuild the roof framework, known as “the forest,” which is dense and intricate.
President Macron’s visit marks the beginning of a series of events leading up to the cathedral’s official reopening on December 8. He will return on December 7 to deliver a speech and attend the consecration of the new altar during a solemn Mass the following day. This momentous occasion is being hailed as a symbol of national unity and French resilience, showcasing their ability to overcome challenges and come back stronger.
The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral is a testament to the ardent dedication and hard work put in by the artisans, architects, and workers involved in this massive restoration project. From the meticulous restoration of the ceilings and stonework to the intricate carpentry work, every aspect of the reconstruction has been carried out with utmost care and precision.
The cathedral holds a special place in the hearts of the French people, and the fire in 2019 was a devastating blow to their cultural heritage. However, with the completion of this restoration project, they have shown the world their unbreakable spirit and determination to preserve their history and identity.
As Notre Dame Cathedral opens its doors once again to the world, it stands tall and proud, showcasing its new self with its soaring ceilings and restored stonework. It is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of human perseverance. We can all look forward to experiencing the beauty and grandeur of this iconic landmark with renewed awe and appreciation.
