Photo: DIMITAR DILKOFF / AFP / Getty Images
After five years of restoration work following a devastating fire, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reopen its doors on December 8, 2024. The cathedral, one of the most famous and visited world heritage landmarks, has been restored to its former glory, thanks to millions in donations and the efforts of hundreds of specialist artisans.
The fire on April 15, 2019, destroyed much of the 860-year-old structure, including its central spire, which collapsed during the blaze. The fire was accidentally sparked under the cathedral’s roof, leaving Parisians and the world in shock. The restoration work was overseen by architect Philippe Villeneuve and was carried out using age-old skills, with some modern adjustments, such as sprinkler systems and security measures, to avoid another accident.
The cathedral has been returned to its former glory with the help of millions in donations from a large number of countries, not all of which have a Christian tradition. The Friends of Notre Dame de Paris, a nonprofit founded in 2017, led the international fundraising efforts to rebuild and restore the cathedral, raising nearly $60 million.
The official inauguration is scheduled for December 7, 2024, with the awakening of the organ, a liturgical celebration including a blessing, a Magnificat or a Te Deum, and vespers. The first Mass is scheduled for December 8, 2024, with the consecration of the altar. From December 8 to 15, 2024, an octave promises a solemn celebration every day, with some highlights.
Despite the cathedral's reopening, some of the work must continue beyond this date, including access to the towers of Notre Dame, which remains closed to the public until further notice.