After more than five years of intense reconstruction efforts, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has unveiled its newly restored interior to the public. Following the devastating fire in 2019, the cathedral now boasts rebuilt soaring ceilings and pristine stonework that erases the memories of the tragic incident.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently visited the cathedral, where he marveled at the restored interior. The iconic building, which was once a bustling hub for worshippers and visitors, had been off-limits to the public since the fire. However, the painstaking reconstruction work has now brought new life to the cathedral’s interior.
The cathedral’s once-charred ceilings have been meticulously repaired by skilled stonemasons. The gaping holes left by the blaze have been filled, and delicate golden angels now adorn the reconstructed ceilings. The bright, cream-colored limestone walls have been cleaned and restored to their original glory, free from the dust and grime that had accumulated over the centuries.
Innovative cleaning techniques were employed to restore the cathedral to its former beauty. Powerful vacuum cleaners were used to remove toxic dust, while layers of latex were sprayed onto surfaces to remove dirt. Cleaning gels were also utilized to reveal the vibrant colors of painted walls that had been hidden under layers of grime.
The reconstruction efforts also included the hand-hewing of giant oak beams to rebuild the roof and spire that had collapsed in the fire. The meticulous craftsmanship of the carpenters is evident in the marks left on the woodwork by their hand axes. The use of 2,000 oak trees to reconstruct the intricate roof frameworks has earned them the nickname “the forest.”
President Macron’s visit marks the beginning of a series of events leading up to the cathedral’s official reopening. He is set to return in December to deliver an address and attend the consecration of the new altar during a solemn Mass. The French government views the cathedral’s reconstruction as a symbol of national unity and resilience.
The unveiling of Notre Dame Cathedral’s restored interior is a testament to the dedication and skill of the artisans and craftsmen involved in the reconstruction efforts. The public can look forward to experiencing the cathedral once again when it opens its doors in December, allowing visitors to marvel at its beauty and history.
