Notre Dame cathedral to reopen in 2024

France’s Notre Dame Cathedral is expected to reopen to visitors and Catholic masses by the end of 2024, less than six years after a devastating fire destroyed its roof. The restoration project is on track to meet the reopening deadline set by President Emmanuel Macron, although it will not be ready in time for the Paris Olympics in 2024.

The reconstruction of Notre Dame has been a massive undertaking. The project began in 2022 after two years of stabilization and security work. The authorities have decided to rebuild the cathedral in its original form, including recreating the 19th-century spire designed by architect Eugene Viollet-le-Duc. The iconic spire will reappear above the cathedral this year, symbolizing its revival.

Approximately 1,000 people are working on the restoration of Notre Dame every day, with various tasks to accomplish, such as the framework, painting, stones, vault, organ, and stained glass.

In Paris, an exhibition called “Notre-Dame de Paris: at the heart of the construction site” has opened, paying tribute to the artisans involved in the reconstruction. The exhibit, located in an underground facility in front of the cathedral, showcases the ongoing restoration work, the skills of the artisans, and some rescued works of art from the fire.

While Notre Dame will reopen to the public in 2024, some renovation works will continue in 2025. The project signifies the resilience and determination to restore and preserve this iconic symbol of French history and culture.