Explore Notre Dame Cathedral’s Iconic Towers: A Stunning Reopening After 6 Years of Restoration

French President Emmanuel Macron recently reopened Notre Dame’s towers to the public, marking a significant milestone in the cathedral’s reconstruction after the fire on April 15, 2019. Visitors can now climb the 424 steps to enjoy stunning views of Paris.

This reopening comes at a time when nearly 30,000 people are visiting the cathedral daily, eager to witness its revival. Macron has played a pivotal role in these efforts, promising the restoration would be completed within five years. This achievement gives him a boost amidst political challenges at home.

The restoration effort has been extensive, costing close to $1 billion. To ensure the cathedral’s longevity, workers reinforced its structure and repaired damage using modern technology, like drones and computer modeling. Safety upgrades include metal trusses that help prevent future fires by compartmentalizing the roof.

Philippe Jost, head of the reconstruction, noted that the newly improved towers enhance visitor experiences with better viewpoints and new spaces. However, accessing the towers is pricier than visiting the cathedral itself, with tickets costing about €16 (around $19). The first tickets sold out in just 24 minutes, showcasing the public’s excitement.

While the towers have reopened, the restoration is not over. The apse at the eastern end still needs work, alongside other maintenance that goes beyond fire damage. Jost emphasizes the goal: a full restoration so that Notre Dame can shine in all its glory once again.

A recent survey highlighted that 72% of Parisians support the restoration efforts, seeing it as a vital part of cultural heritage. As excitement builds, the cathedral stands not just as a monument but as a symbol of resilience and hope for the community.

For more details about Notre Dame’s restoration, you can check out the CBS News article.

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Notre Dame, Emmanuel Macron, France