The Notre Dame Cathedral, which was heavily damaged by the fire in April 2019, has taken another step towards its reopening, which must occur on December 8, 2024, by raising a new rooster this Saturday on the iconic spire that had been left reduced to ashes.
The original rooster, which ended up with numerous damages due to the flames, has been replaced by another one, designed by architect Phillipe Villeneuve. The sculpture that tops the new spire today is made of copper covered with a layer of gold.
After receiving the blessing from the bishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich, the shiny rooster was raised to the 96-metre height of the spire, erected a couple of weeks ago to replace the work of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc (17th century). XIX), which was completely devastated by fire.
The old rooster has been largely recovered and will be exhibited in the museum on the relics of Notre Dame that will open soon.
The new sculpture of the animal contains relics inside that were saved from the flames, such as the skeletal remains of Saint-Denis from the 3rd century, who was the first bishop of Paris, and Sainte-Geneviève, patron saint of the capital, as well as a fragment of the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ.
It also houses a document that lists the nearly 2,000 people who have participated in the reconstruction of one of the most visited monuments in the world.
The rooster is an animal of special significance in France because it is considered a symbol of pride and strength for its morning crow. Its national football or rugby teams have made it internationally known by carrying it as a shield.
