The Restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral

By Stella Bovender

On Dec. 7th, 2024, after the devastating fire in 2019, the 862-year-old restored Notre Dame Cathedral graced the world with its presence. The beautiful opening ceremony was live streamed from Paris, France, with attendees including world leaders and notable bishops. Even the first responders who fought the fire attended and were honored alongside rescuers of artifacts and some of the 2,000 artisans and craftspeople who restored the cathedral. After a speech from French President Macron, thanking everyone who supported and contributed to the rebuilding, the Archbishop of Notre Dame awakened the organ and gave a heartfelt sermon expressing his gratitude to the world. 

The ceremony wouldn’t have been possible without the work of 2,000 individuals who worked for five years, a deadline they all thought would be impossible because of the amount of work to be done. They had to clean toxic lead off of the stained-glass windows and paintings, build a new roof and spire, and most importantly, leave the Cathedral grander than before. They were able to achieve their goals and also gave the Cathedral a complete makeover. Comparing photos of the interior from before the fire and after the restoration is astonishing because the limestone walls are now white after being rid of centuries-old dirt and grime, and now shines like heaven itself.

However, the most important thing added was an advanced fire and sprinkler system across the Cathedral. A few additions were fire pumps added to the North and South towers, firewalls to limit fire spread, and a sprinkler system in the roof that activates when it exceeds 500 degrees. The sprinkler system also uses mist instead of a drizzle to limit water damage to the wooden beams.

If you haven’t already, please watch the opening ceremony for yourself, and be fascinated by how much care and work it took to bring Notre Dame back to life!