French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral on Friday, December 7, to mark the completion of its renovation five and a half years after a devastating fire. The blaze, which ravaged the roof and spire in April 2019, caused significant damage to the historic cathedral, but the iconic structure is now ready to welcome visitors again.
Located in the heart of Paris, Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the world’s most famous Gothic cathedrals. Known for its stunning architecture, including ribbed vaults, flying buttresses, intricate stained-glass windows, and stone gargoyles, the cathedral has captivated generations. Construction began in 1163 and continued for several centuries, with notable restorations made in the 17th and 18th centuries. Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel *The Hunchback of Notre-Dame* immortalized the cathedral, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
On the evening of April 15, 2019, a fire broke out in the cathedral’s roof, quickly spreading to the spire and threatening the main bell towers. While the roof collapsed, the bell towers and the cathedral’s facade were largely spared. French authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of the fire but suspect either an electrical fault or a discarded cigarette may have been to blame.
The reopening ceremony on December 7 will be a momentous occasion, with President Macron delivering a speech outside the cathedral. Following his address, Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich will knock on the cathedral’s doors with his crosier. In response, a psalm will be sung from within before the doors open. The archbishop will bless the cathedral’s organ, which will then play for the first time since the fire. A private service will follow the ceremony.
On Sunday, December 8, the first public Mass will take place at 10:30 AM. The Mass will mark the beginning of eight days of services celebrating the cathedral’s restoration. Some of these Masses, including an evening service at 6:30 PM, will be open to the public.
If you wish to visit Notre-Dame shortly after its reopening, you can do so on December 8 from 5:30 PM to 8 PM, though it’s expected that entry will be highly competitive due to the anticipated high demand.
