The restoration project mobilized roughly 2,000 craftspeople, including stonemasons, carpenters, sculptors, and organ builders, who worked to restore the 12th-century Gothic masterpiece after a devastating fire in April 2019.

France 24

The renovation included cleaning 42,000 square meters of stone, restoring 8,000 organ pipes, rebuilding the wooden framework roof known as 'the forest,' and reconstructing the 96-meter-tall spire that collapsed during the fire.

The Associated Press

Modern safety features have been discreetly integrated into the restored cathedral, including thermal cameras, fireproof barriers, and a misting system capable of delivering 600 cubic meters of water per hour.

The cathedral's limestone walls have been cleaned to their original cream color, revealing mason marks from medieval builders and creating a brighter atmosphere enhanced by restored stained-glass windows.

CBS News

Church authorities expect annual visitor numbers to increase from 12 million pre-fire to 14-15 million after reopening, with the Catholic Church maintaining free admission despite suggestions to charge entrance fees.

Al Jazeera

<span>Notre-Dame cathedral reopens five years after fire</span>

Notre-Dame cathedral reopens five years after fire

Culture

France

The modernization efforts and rapid reconstruction timeline may have compromised the cathedral's historical authenticity, with some original medieval elements lost forever and new materials and techniques potentially altering the building's character.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Rises from Ashes After 5-Year Restoration

Notre-Dame cathedralCathedral reopensRises fivefrom yearsAshes afterAfter fire5-Year Restoration

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Notre-Dame Cathedral Rises from Ashes After 5-Year Restoration

Notre-Dame cathedralCathedral reopensRises fivefrom yearsAshes afterAfter fire5-Year Restoration

The Spin

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