Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has officially reopened to the public after a devastating fire five years ago. The cathedral opened on December 7th, 2024, with over 2,500 guests, World leaders, and the famous church organ.
The five year restoration process involved experts from various fields, including architects, historians, and artisans. Their collective effort ensured that the cathedral’s historical integrity persevered while incorporating modern safety features. The intricate details of the church have been restored allowing visitors to once again get to be amazed at the astonishing Norte-Dame.
Aleks Bratic (9) says, “I feel very happy that it’s being rebuilt since it was devastating that it burned down and now everyone gets to enjoy it again.”
The cathedral will resume its normal schedule from the hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, and until 10 p.m. on Thursdays. Entrance fees could help pay for the upkeep of the church and other religious monuments. However, many of these monuments belong to government authorities where they pay money to the Roman Catholic Church of France and runs the monument which opposed any entrance fee.
More than 40 heads of state and government, religious dignitaries, and other officials attended the cathedral. Pope Francis and President Biden did not attend. The opening ceremony consisted of 1,500 dignitaries, including first lady Jill Biden, President-elect Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Along with them about 40,000 members of the general public are able to watch on screens.
Anuva Giri (11) says, “I am excited it’s done being built because it means that it will open up to tourists again. When I went to see the cathedral, it was still being built so it will be really excited to go again and see the preservation.”
The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral is a symbol of hope and renewal for the city of Paris and the world. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirt can prevail. The cathedral’s testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. It’s a place where people can come together and celebrate their faith, history, and their humanity.
