This morning, the bells of Notre-Dame de Paris finally rang out again, marking a significant moment after the devastating fire of April 15, 2019. The long-awaited event was reported by Agence France Presse, as preparations for the cathedral’s reopening, scheduled for December 7, are in full swing.
Philippe Jost, head of the restoration of Notre-Dame, revealed during an interview with RTL radio that the inaugural ceremony will feature “great artists of international standing.” This event will not only mark the reopening of the cathedral after five years of work, but will also be an opportunity to celebrate the return of the architectural and artistic beauty of this monument. The inauguration will be attended by President Emmanuel Macron and is expected to be attended by some 3,000 people. Jost described the cathedral as “transformed by the restoration,” highlighting the renewed splendor of the stone and painted decorations.
“There is a Sistine Chapel effect,” Jost said, referring to the extraordinary discovery made during the cleaning process.
The restoration of Notre Dame was made possible by the combined efforts of thousands of professionals, including architects and restorers, many of whom were Italian. Despite significant challenges – such as risks related to lead dust and disruptions caused by the pandemic – these experts worked tirelessly to bring one of Europe’s most iconic landmarks back to life. The cathedral fire also sparked an extraordinary outpouring of global solidarity, with donations exceeding €844 million. During a visit in May 2019 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Leonardo Da Vinci’s death, President Sergio Mattarella was the first international leader to pay homage to the damaged cathedral. He highlighted the historical and cultural importance of Notre Dame for Europe.
The reopening of Notre Dame not only marks the end of the restoration work; it is also a powerful signal of cultural and spiritual recovery not only for Paris but for all of Europe. With the resumption of religious and cultural celebrations, Notre Dame is preparing to return to the center of Parisian life and European history, reaffirming its role as a resilient symbol of Western civilization.
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