Paris, France: Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris reopened its doors on November 7th, marking a triumphant milestone in its restoration five years after a devastating fire brought the iconic 12th-century landmark to the brink of collapse.
The ceremony, led by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, drew an assembly of global leaders along with French President Emmanuel Macron including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and US President-elect Donald Trump, making his first overseas visit since his recent election victory.
The evening ceremony began with Macron addressing the crowd, expressing gratitude to the firefighters, artisans, and donors who contributed nearly $1 billion to the cathedral’s meticulous restoration.
Macron proclaimed that, “Tonight, the bells of Notre-Dame will ring again,” reflecting on the cathedral’s role as a symbol of resilience and unity.
The word “merci” (“thank you”) was illuminated on the cathedral’s façade as the crowd erupted in applause for the firefighters who had battled the inferno in April 2019.
Restoration efforts have returned Notre-Dame to its former glory, with its iconic spire rebuilt, rib vaulting and flying buttresses restored, and its stone gargoyles and white-and-gold decorations gleaming anew.
The reopening also served as a platform for diplomacy amid ongoing global tensions. Macron hosted closed-door talks with Zelenskyy and Trump at the Elysee Palace before the ceremony.
Zelenskyy described the discussions as “good and productive,” emphasizing shared goals for peace in Ukraine. However, observers noted the meeting’s significance, given Trump’s skepticism of US support for Ukraine since Russia’s 2022 invasion.
For Macron, the event offered a moment of reprieve from domestic political strife, including the recent ousting of his Prime Minister by Parliament.
Other leaders and dignitaries at the event included Price Williams and outgoing US First Lady Dr Jill Biden, who was representing President Joe Biden.
During their 40 minutes together, William and Trump discussed a range of global issues but focused on the importance of the UK/US special relationship.
The reopening of Notre-Dame stands as a testament to global solidarity, meticulous craftsmanship, and the enduring power of cultural heritage, ensuring that the iconic cathedral continues to inspire generations to come.