After years of monumental restoration work, Notre-Dame de Paris is finally reopening its doors. This eagerly awaited event will be marked by a rich and varied program designed to celebrate the rebirth of this iconic monument. Here is the schedule of festivities for this historic reopening.
1. Official Inauguration: Saturday, December 7, 2024
The reopening will begin with an official ceremony on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The inauguration, scheduled for 5:30 PM, will bring together prominent figures, including:
- Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic, accompanied by his wife, Brigitte Macron.
- Donald Trump, President of the United States of America.
- Numerous foreign heads of state and religious dignitaries, including representatives of the Vatican and Orthodox churches.
- Cultural and heritage leaders, underscoring the universal significance of Notre-Dame.
A Unique Inaugural Show
The ceremony will be followed by a sound and light show, projected onto the cathedral’s façade, retracing the history of Notre-Dame, the fire, and its restoration. This artistic moment, open to the public, promises to be a highlight of the festivities.
Read more : How Much Did the Restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris Cost?
2. First Public Visits: Starting Monday, December 16, 2024
The cathedral will open its doors to visitors starting December 16. The initial days will feature free guided tours, aimed at thanking donors, artisans, and local residents who supported the restoration.
From December 17, Notre-Dame will be open to all individual visitors, allowing millions of people to rediscover this masterpiece.
3. A Historic First Mass: Sunday, December 22, 2024
The first public mass in the fully restored cathedral will take place on Sunday, December 22, at 10:30 AM. This celebration, led by the Archbishop of Paris, will be broadcast live, enabling a global audience to share this solemn moment.
An Ecumenical Celebration
In addition to Catholic worshippers, representatives of other Christian denominations, including Orthodox and Protestant churches, will participate in this symbolic event, highlighting the universal appeal of Notre-Dame.
4. Concerts and Cultural Events Throughout December
Inaugural Concert: December 19, 2024
An inaugural concert will take place on December 19 inside the cathedral. It will feature prestigious choirs and international orchestras performing sacred works by composers such as Bach and Fauré.
Exhibitions and Night Tours
Temporary exhibitions will be set up in Notre-Dame’s gardens, chronicling the restoration process and showcasing the artisans and techniques involved. Additionally, night tours with scenographic lighting will provide a unique perspective on the cathedral’s interior architecture.
5. Security and Access During Festivities
A security perimeter will be established around the cathedral during the events to ensure the smooth running of the festivities. Visitors will access Notre-Dame through designated checkpoints, with enhanced measures for days of high attendance.
A Reminder of the Tragic Events of 2019
On April 15, 2019, Notre-Dame de Paris was devastated by a massive fire that destroyed its roof and spire, shocking the world. The images of the cathedral engulfed in flames, with its iconic spire collapsing, left a lasting impression globally. For hours, firefighters battled the blaze to save the main structure and the priceless treasures it housed, including sacred relics. This tragic event marked the beginning of an immense restoration project, symbolizing resilience and unity.
A Landmark Event for Paris and the World
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris signifies not only the completion of a colossal project but also the resilience of a world heritage site in the face of adversity. With this diverse and inclusive program, the goal is to celebrate the rebirth of the cathedral while honoring those who contributed to its preservation.
A Moment of Universal Unity
Whether you are a believer, a heritage enthusiast, or simply curious, these festivities offer a unique opportunity to share a historic moment in a place that transcends borders and generations.