Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the architectural jewels of Paris and the world, has revealed its newly restored interiors, five years after a catastrophic fire nearly destroyed its iconic structure. On December 7, the historic monument is set to reopen its doors to the public, inviting both worshippers and tourists back to experience its grandeur. French President Emmanuel Macron led the first public tour of the rebuilt interiors as part of the preview for the highly anticipated reopening, marking the end of extensive and often challenging restoration efforts.
Images broadcast live from Macron's visit showcased the transformed cathedral, now resplendent with soaring ceilings and pristine, creamy stonework, effectively erasing the memories of the devastation left by the flames on April 15, 2019. The President described the renovation as "the project of the century," and he appeared visibly moved by the remarkable work accomplished by over 1,000 artisans, architects, and laborers dedicated to restoring the cathedral's former glory.
During his tour, Macron marveled at the cathedral's vast interior, which, for the first time since the fire, now looks as it did during its medieval heyday, filled with natural light spilling through vibrant stained-glass windows. Many areas of the cathedral, which previously bore the scars of the blaze, including gaping holes and piles of charred debris, have been repaired with new stonework. Among the restored features are delicate golden angels adorning the ceilings, sending out their serene watch over the nave.
Given the scale of the task at hand, the restoration utilized both modern and traditional techniques. Initial cleanup began with powerful vacuum cleaners to eliminate the toxic dust released when lead roofs melted during the fire. Following this, fine layers of latex were sprayed onto the stones to lift stubborn dirt from the nooks and crannies. A staggering 42,000 square meters of stonework—an area equivalent to about six soccer pitches—was cleaned and decontaminated during the process.
Stone-carver Samir Abbas, who worked on the project, described the renovation as exceptional and praised the craftsmanship displayed throughout the building. Macron shared his appreciation at the completion of this architectural resurrection, stating, "You have achieved what was thought impossible. The blaze at Notre-Dame was a national wound, and you have been its remedy through will, through work, through commitment."
The new limestone walls glitter with cleanliness, now devoid of the soot and grime accumulated throughout centuries. The cathedral, which once attracted millions of visitors each year, is expected to welcome back about 15 million annually post-reopening. Macron has pledged to return for the altar's consecration and to attend the solemn Mass the day after the grand reopening, emphasizing the importance of the church as both a religious and cultural symbol.
Outside the cathedral, scaffolding still clings to parts of the structure, as work continues to finish the exteriors. But inside, it is all about light and space—elements of the cathedral characterized by its breathtaking architecture and design. "It feels like it was built yesterday, like it’s just been born," remarked stonemason Adrien Willeme during the restoration, reflecting the sense of renewal and hope embodied by the project.
Detailed work included rebuilding the massive oak beams of the roof and the cathedral spire, which dramatically collapsed all those years ago. The project necessitated the felling of around 2,000 oak trees to recreate the dense frameworks known as “the forest.” Artisans have been working with techniques akin to those used during the cathedral’s construction, paying homage to its rich history and craftsmanship.
The successful restoration of Notre Dame stands not only as a triumph of skilled craftsmanship but also as a symbol of national resilience. It has been filled with emotional significance for many Parisians and beyond. "On the night of April 15, hundreds of thousands of people committed themselves to what then seemed an impossible bet: to restore the cathedral and give it back its splendor within the unprecedented deadline of five years," said Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, reflecting the community spirit surrounding the reconstruction.
Paris's many residents expressed their joy at the reopening. Architect Sebastien Truchot emphasized Notre Dame's universal importance as he conveyed his excitement to see the rebuilt cathedral. "Whether you believe in God or not, Notre-Dame is a universal symbol, and it’s amazing to have it back and to rediscover it." Many are eager to experience the beauty and soul of this architectural icon once more.
Even beyond the architectural aspects, the opening ceremony is set to gather not just local dignitaries but international figures, including renowned personalities and even heads of state, emphasizing the global importance of Notre Dame. The guest list reportedly may include Jill Biden, wife of the US President, as well as other VIPs, potentially signaling desires to strengthen cultural ties through the celebration.
While the exterior restoration continues leading up to the reopening weekend, the interior repairs have showcased the craftsmanship, dedication, and resilience of those involved. The public eagerly awaits the first public masses, where worshippers can join together once more under the breathtaking vaults and vibrant colors of one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture ever created. The reopening signals not just recovery from tragedy but is poised to reignite the spirit of connection, faith, and hope within the walls of this majestic cathedral.
The day of reopening is set on the weekend of December 7-8—signifying not just the restoration of bricks and mortar, but the revival of spirit for countless individuals around the world who hold Notre Dame dear to their hearts. It’s more than just stonework; it is about bringing life back to one of humanity’s artistic achievements, beautifully intertwined with history and community.