Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris will reopen on December 7, nearly five years after a devastating fire. Photos and videos of the restored cathedral have been released. The fire, which occurred in April 2019, caused significant damage to the historic building. Investigators ruled out arson and determined the fire was accidental, likely caused by either an electrical fault or a worker’s discarded cigarette.
French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to restore Notre-Dame “more beautiful than ever.” With over $700 million in donations from wealthy families and people worldwide, the cathedral was carefully rebuilt.
Restoration of a Historic Landmark
Before the fire, Notre-Dame was celebrated for its architectural beauty, symbolic artwork, and relics, including the Crown of Thorns. The cathedral spans more than 52,000 square feet, with towers reaching over 220 feet tall.
The reopening will include several events from December 7 to December 15, with two concerts scheduled for December 17 and 18. Additional celebrations will continue through June 8, 2025. The reopening ceremony will be by invitation only.