Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich led the reopening with a ceremonial knock on the cathedral’s grand doors, using a staff crafted from fire-scorched wood salvaged after the 2019 blaze. Fierce winds forced the events indoors, but the atmosphere inside remained jubilant.
🇫🇷⚡️ Notre Dame’s bell rang for the first time in 5 years! pic.twitter.com/1bP3pUqNSs
— TabZ (@TabZLIVE) December 7, 2024
Under the soaring Gothic arches, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s great organ—restored with 7,952 pipes—roared back to life, echoing through the nave for the first time since the fire.
World Leaders in Attendance
The reopening brought together 1,500 dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Britain’s Prince William, U.S. First Lady Jill Biden, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Their presence underscored Notre Dame’s global significance as a cultural and spiritual beacon.
Restoration Highlights
The ambitious five-year restoration effort included:
- Cleaning and repairing 42,000 square meters of stonework.
- Restoring the iconic 13-ton Emmanuel bell, which rings in F sharp.
- Rebuilding the cathedral’s roof and spire using over 2,000 oak beams nicknamed “the forest.”
A Global Celebration
Security was heightened as 40,000 spectators gathered along the River Seine to witness the historic moment. Screens on the riverbanks broadcast the ceremony, allowing everyone to partake in this monumental occasion.
Unity Amid Crisis
For President Macron, the reopening was a rare moment of political unity, offering a symbol of resilience during challenging times. Macron described the event as “a jolt of hope,” emphasizing the significance of completing the restoration within five years.
A New Chapter for Notre Dame
With its reopening, Notre Dame is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, reaffirming its status as a global treasure. The cathedral’s bell, organ, and stunning interiors now stand as a testament to human determination and faith.
