What's happened
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is preparing for its grand reopening on December 8, 2024, after extensive restoration following the devastating fire in April 2019. The reopening will feature a ceremony attended by President Emmanuel Macron and Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, marking a significant moment for both the church and the French public.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, President Macron's visit to Notre-Dame will coincide with the cathedral's reopening, emphasizing the restoration as a 'French success.' The Independent notes the ceremonial return of the Virgin Mary statue, which survived the fire, as a significant moment for the Catholic community. The New York Times highlights the expected influx of visitors, projecting a return to the cathedral's status as a major tourist attraction. These perspectives illustrate the multifaceted significance of the reopening, from cultural to political implications.
How we got here
The fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral on April 15, 2019, caused extensive damage, prompting a massive restoration effort. President Macron pledged to restore the cathedral within five years, leading to significant donations and the involvement of hundreds of artisans.
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