The return of Notre Dame: a historic event for France
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Five years after the devastating fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, its grand reopening ceremony was held. The event brought together world leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron, US President Donald Trump and the Grand Ducal couple of Luxembourg.
The service began with the symbolic triple knock of the Archbishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich, on the doors of the cathedral. In attendance were the firefighters who saved the cathedral from total destruction. Their passage through the cathedral was accompanied by a standing ovation, and the word "Merci" ("Thank you") was glowing on the cathedral's façade and towers.
The restoration took five years and cost €700 million, raised through donations. Despite challenges such as lead contamination and the COVID-19 pandemic, the restorers met the deadline. The cathedral was graced with renewed stained glass windows, furniture and advanced lighting. The revival of the 8,000-pipe organ was the highlight of the evening.
The opening of the cathedral coincided with a period of political instability in France. Macron said he hoped the moment would unite the nation as the 2024 Olympics did.
The first public Mass will take place on Sunday. However, discussions around the future of the cathedral continue. Pope Francis opposed the idea of introducing entrance fees proposed by the French Ministry of Culture.
