Notre-Dame Cathedral to reopen this weekend after five-year restoration

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris will reopen this weekend after extensive restoration following a devastating fire in April 2019. The restoration took over five years and included advanced fire safety systems to protect the historic structure. The cathedral has a history of needing restoration, notably after the French Revolution when it faced potential demolition. Author Victor Hugo's 1831 novel helped revive interest in the cathedral, leading to significant repairs in the 1840s. The recent restoration received global support, with donations nearing $1 billion. The cathedral is seen as a symbol of French culture and history, attracting interest beyond its religious significance.