Emotion and hope resonate today on the square in front of Notre-Dame. For the first time since the terrible fire that ravaged the cathedral in 2019, the eight bells of the north belfry soar again in newfound harmony, symbol of a long-awaited resurrection…
On this Friday morning, the emotion was palpable on the square in front of Notre-Dame de Paris. More than five years after the devastating fire that ravaged the iconic cathedral, the eight bells of the north belfry have soared in a harmonious symphony, marking a crucial step in the resurrection of this world heritage gem.
The long-awaited awakening of the bells
Shortly before 10:30 a.m., the bells started ringing one by one, driven by motors specially installed for the occasion. Their melodious song resounded in the Parisian air, attracting the attention of passers-by and the faithful who came to witness this historic moment.
It’s a beautiful, important, symbolic step.
Philippe Jost, responsible for the restoration of Notre-Dame
Meticulous restoration work
During the fire in April 2019, the flames reached part of the north belfry, requiring complete restoration. The eight bells it housed had to be carefully removed, cleaned of lead dust and restored before returning to their original setting.
From “Gabriel”, and its more than four tonnes, to the smallest “Jean-Marie” weighing around 800 kg, each of these bells bears the name of a personality who has marked the life of the diocese and the Church. In mid-September, they returned to Notre-Dame during a small ceremony, where they were blessed.
Conclusive tests for perfect harmony
Although everything is not yet perfect, this first attempt proved very conclusive in the eyes of Alexandre Gougeon, project manager for the refitting of the bells. His company, mandated by the group in charge of the work, worked tirelessly to bring this unique bell tower back to life.
It’s a great outcome. We will still adjust a few details to achieve perfection
Alexandre Gougeon, bell project manager – Entreprise Gougeon
Towards a much-hoped-for reopening
This awakening of the bells marks a further step towards the reopening of Notre-Dame, scheduled for December 7. An essential monument of French and world heritage, listed by UNESCO, the cathedral attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year.
Its restoration, the result of titanic and meticulous work, mobilizes the best craftsmen and experts. Every gesture counts to restore Notre-Dame to its former splendor, while preserving it for future generations.
Today, while the bells resonate again in the sky of Paris, a bit of the soul of the cathedral vibrates and is reborn. A strong symbol, bearer of hope and resilience, which announces better days for this timeless witness of our History.
Although everything is not yet perfect, this first attempt proved very conclusive in the eyes of Alexandre Gougeon, project manager for the refitting of the bells. His company, mandated by the group in charge of the work, worked tirelessly to bring this unique bell tower back to life.
It’s a great outcome. We will still adjust a few details to achieve perfection
Alexandre Gougeon, bell project manager – Entreprise Gougeon
Towards a much-hoped-for reopening
This awakening of the bells marks a further step towards the reopening of Notre-Dame, scheduled for December 7. An essential monument of French and world heritage, listed by UNESCO, the cathedral attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year.
Its restoration, the result of titanic and meticulous work, mobilizes the best craftsmen and experts. Every gesture counts to restore Notre-Dame to its former splendor, while preserving it for future generations.
Today, while the bells resonate again in the sky of Paris, a bit of the soul of the cathedral vibrates and is reborn. A strong symbol, bearer of hope and resilience, which announces better days for this timeless witness of our History.
