Notre Dame Cathedral reopens in Paris after restoration following 2019 fire

Notre Dame Cathedral reopened on December 7, 2024, after being closed since a fire in 2019. Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich symbolically knocked on the doors to mark the occasion, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump and Prince William. The restoration included cleaning over 50,000 square yards of stonework and rebuilding the spire with 2,000 oak beams. The reopening ceremony featured performances by renowned musicians and highlighted the cathedral's significance as a symbol of hope and resilience. Following the reopening, Notre Dame is expected to attract 15 million visitors annually, an increase from 12 million before the fire. The event provided a moment of unity amid political challenges for President Emmanuel Macron, who celebrated the successful restoration timeline.