Notre Dame Cathedral reopens in Paris after extensive renovations following 2019 fire

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris reopened on December 7, 2024, after extensive renovations following a devastating fire in 2019. The ceremony was attended by around 1,500 guests, including world leaders like President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Archbishop Laurent Ulrich marked the occasion by knocking three times on the cathedral's doors, symbolizing its rebirth. The event featured choirs, the ringing of the 13-ton Emmanuel bell, and the first performance of the cathedral's organ since the fire. While the reopening celebrated Notre Dame's restoration, it also drew protests against Trump's presence. Demonstrators expressed their discontent with his invitation, highlighting ongoing political tensions.