Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris set to reopen after five-year restoration following fire

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris will officially reopen this weekend, five years after a devastating fire destroyed much of its roof and spire. The reconstruction, initially doubted by many, was completed ahead of schedule, fulfilling a promise made by President Emmanuel Macron. An international team of 2,000 workers restored the cathedral, using materials from across France, including 2,000 oak trees for the spire. The project, which cost over €900 million, involved extensive cleaning and restoration of stonework, stained glass, and sculptures. Macron will deliver a speech outside the cathedral during the reopening ceremony, after negotiations with church officials. The fire's cause remains uncertain, but it was likely due to an electrical issue or a cigarette.