Notre-Dame Cathedral reopens in Paris after five years of restoration

One of the greatest symbols of the French capital, the cathedral was destroyed by fire in 2019; the reopening was a promise from Macron, who is facing a political crisis in France

THE Notre Dame CathedralIn Parisreopens to the public this Saturday 7th, after five years of repairing the damage caused by a fire in 2019. The French president will be present at the reopening Emmanuel Macron and approximately 40 heads of state, including the president-elect of United States, donald trump.

Notre-Dame, together with Eiffel Tower, It is one of the greatest attractions in Paris and a major work of Gothic art, with more than 800 years of history.

The recovery of the cathedral in five years was Macron’s promise to the French. The president will give a speech in front of the cathedral to the Roman Catholic faithful, foreign authorities and donors who contributed to the reform. Despite this, the moment, which for Macron would be a celebration, it could be overshadowed by the political crisis it will face with the fall of Prime Minister Michael Barnier.

Next the Archbishop of Paris will knock with his staff on the doors of the cathedral and a choir will sing Psalm 121 three times. The doors will be opened and the Archbishop will lead a service and bless the great organ, which was not damaged but had to be cleaned of toxic lead dust. In these hours the cleric should also read the message sent by Pope Francis, who does not intend to reopen.

Followed by a television show and concert, again in front of the cathedral. Gustavo Dudamel will conduct the Radio France Philharmonic Orchestra, then other artists will take the stage.

On Sunday 8th the cathedral will celebrate the mass of consecration of the altar. Macron and around 170 French and foreign bishops are expected to participate, as well as priests from the 106 parishes of Paris.

The cathedral tower was rebuilt as it was: a lead-covered oak structure, with a cross on top and a copper rooster overlooking Paris. Even the medieval attic, a trellis of ancient oak beams called “the woods”, has been restored in an original way.

The only changes were the inclusion of modern fire protection on the roof, which was absent in 2019. These include fog devices, fire walls, thermal cameras and thicker, slower-burning roof boards.

Despite the reopening, the renovation work on the exterior will continue for a few more years. About 142 million euros (R$912 million) left over from donations will be used to restore sections, including the sacristy and flying buttresses, that had been consumed before the fire.

Meetings between Trump and Zelensky

The visit by authorities to reopen the Notre-Drame Cathedral could mark the first meeting between US President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodmir Zelensky after the US election results.

The future US president has said he will resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine “within 24 hours” once he comes to power, raising fears he could encourage Kiev to make concessions to Moscow. Unlike the Joe Biden administration, Trump never mentioned the need for the war to be resolved with the victory of Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia in February 2022. /With NYT and AFP

Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.