Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of France’s most iconic landmarks, reopened on Saturday after five years of meticulous restoration following a devastating 2019 fire. The ceremony began with Archbishop Laurent Ulrich striking the cathedral door with his crozier, followed by singing inside.
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed guests including US President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to mark the event as a global milestone. “Let’s reopen Notre-Dame,” Macron said at X, emphasizing the international importance of the restored Gothic masterpiece.
The cathedral’s spire, rib vaulting, flying buttresses and gargoyles have been restored to their former glory, while its white stone and gold decorations now sparkle. Thousands of artisans worked on the reconstructionUsing traditional techniques to preserve its historical integrity.
Spectators take snapshots outside France’s iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. (AP Photo)
Notable attendees included Britain’s Prince William, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who is part of Trump’s transition team. Former French President Francois Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy also participated in the ceremony.
In April 2019, the fire in the 860-year-old structure shocked the world. “The planet shook that day,” Macron said, prompting optimism as he hoped for a reopening.
French President Emmanuel Macron points to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, back right, as he speaks with US President-elect Donald Trump at Notre Dame. (AP Photo)
Tourists gathered outside to admire the cathedral, while Parisians reflected on its significance. “I saw it burn, I saw it rise again,” said Pascal Tordex, a local resident who witnessed the daily reconstruction.
The restoration, funded by more than €840 million in global grants, ensures that Notre-Dame remains a global symbol of resilience. Historian Damien Byrne called it “a landmark and a point of reference” in an ever-changing world.
Starting now, visitors can book tickets online for free to see the restored interior, with guided tours available next year.
The Catholic Church expects 15 million visitors annually.
(With information from Reuters)