Notre Dame de Paris: today, December 7, an icon is reborn

07-12-24

The Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris, an iconic symbol of history and Gothic architecture, will open its doors to the public on December 7, 2024, after more than five years of intensive restoration work following the devastating fire of April 2019. This event marks a milestone in the recovery of French cultural heritage and promises to revitalize tourism in the capital.

The reopening of Notre Dame stands out not only as an architectural triumph, but also as a significant boost for the local economy. The Paris Tourist Office is forecasting an 18% increase in visitors during the inaugural week compared to the same period in 2023. With expectations of 14 to 15 million visitors annually, Notre Dame could even surpass Disneyland Paris as France's most visited tourist destination.

The restoration of Notre Dame has been a titanic task involving more than 2,000 workers and 250 specialized companies. From the reconstruction of its iconic spire to the restoration of the stained glass windows and sculptures, the process has faithfully respected the building's original design. In addition, significant safety and sustainability improvements were implemented, such as the creation of green spaces in the vicinity of the cathedral and improved access for tourists.

The impact of the fire affected not only the physical structure, but also the cultural and spiritual heart of Paris. However, restoration efforts have transformed this tragedy into an opportunity to strengthen the city's historic identity.