Five years after the devastating fire which deeply affected Parisians and the entire world, Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral is finally preparing to reopen its doors to the public. The bells rang and the hearts of Parisians shuddered. This cathedral, a true architectural treasure and symbol of French history, will regain its former splendor thanks to restoration work that involved craftsmen, historians and architects over several years. The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris is therefore set for December 8, 2024, a historic date for the capital.
An unexpected sound of bells before the official opening
On Friday November 8, 2024, an unexpected event captivated Paris. The bells of Notre-Dame rang suddenly, creating emotion among Parisians from the early hours of the morning. This news, relayed by the media HugoDécrypte, moved a public touched by a mixture of excitement and nostalgia, reviving the memory of the famous bells. Hearing their sounds resound in Paris again, five years after the fire, evokes for many a return to normal and a tribute to this emblematic monument.
According to the HugoDécrypte video, in addition to the five restored existing bells, three new bells were added, including one used during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The opening of the cathedral: what you need to know before visiting Notre-Dame
The official opening of the cathedral is scheduled for December 8, 2024. Eagerly awaited, it will mark the return of a site that once welcomed up to 13 million visitors per year. The date coincides with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, adding a spiritual touch to this large-scale event.
Several new features will accompany this reopening. The square has been completely redeveloped, and free reservations will be necessary to limit crowds, thus making it possible to better organize visits. This new route allows you to rediscover the restored treasures of the cathedral, offering an enriching experience for lovers of culture and heritage.
What's new to expect?
Firstly, a series of religious ceremonies are planned for the week following the opening, including an inaugural mass on Sunday and cultural events until June 2025, which will coincide with the Jubilee Year of Pilgrims. A free reservation application will be available at the end of November, with 30-minute slots to streamline visits. The square, redesigned to offer a more green and calming setting, promises to be an emblematic space.
Visitors will also be able to admire the restored spire, the roofs of the nave and the choir, as well as thematic tours around art and religious heritage. From June 2025, complete guided tours and access reserved for groups will be set up, opening new perspectives for discovering this unique monument.
Towards a possible paid entry
Although general admission remains free for now, an entry fee may be considered in the future. Currently, access to the Treasury, which contains liturgical and historical objects, requires a paid ticket. The Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, suggested that a contribution of €5 could be introduced to support the preservation of France's churches. This measure would, however, not impact access to masses and services, which would remain free.
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris on December 8, 2024 will mark a symbolic moment for Parisians and visitors from around the world. It testifies to the resilience of the artisans and specialists who worked on its restoration and rekindles the flame of an inestimable historical heritage, attracting culture and history enthusiasts from around the world.
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