Notre Dame Cathedral Towers Reopen After Six-Year Restoration
French President Emmanuel Macron officially reopened the iconic towers of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on March 15, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone in the extensive reconstruction process that began after a devastating fire on April 15, 2019. The reopening allows the public to ascend the 424 steps to witness breathtaking views of the city, a long-awaited opportunity for both locals and tourists alike.
Since the cathedral’s reopening in December 2024, nearly 30,000 visitors have flocked to experience the restoration of this historic Gothic landmark. The inauguration ceremony featured prominent figures, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain’s Prince William, and former President-elect Donald Trump. Macron’s leadership during the reconstruction has been politically significant, as he has fulfilled a promise to restore the cathedral within five years of the tragedy.
Restoration Highlights and Visitor Experience
Macron was the first to tour the newly restored towers, which offer close views of Notre Dame’s famous gargoyles—mythical sculptures that adorn its exterior. In a post on X, he expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The towers of Notre-Dame reopen to the public. The cathedral is regaining all its splendour and once again offers its spectacular views of Paris.”
Visitors can embark on a roughly 45-minute tour that starts in the south tower and leads to the belfry. Philippe Jost, Macron’s representative for the reconstruction, noted that while the route existed before the fire, it has been significantly enhanced. The improvements include new viewpoints and spaces specifically designed for tourists.
Accessing the towers comes at a cost, with tickets priced at 16 euros (approximately $19). Unlike the free entry to the cathedral, tickets for the tower tours must be purchased online, with a strict limit of 19 people allowed at a time. The initial tickets for the reopening weekend sold out in just 24 minutes.
A Billion-Dollar Restoration Effort
The total cost of restoring Notre Dame has approached $1 billion. Following the fire, workers stabilized the 12th-century monument by encasing it in scaffolding. Hundreds of artisans utilized modern technology, including drones and computer animation, to guide the reconstruction process. Enhancements also include advanced safety measures designed to prevent future fires, such as metal trusses that divide the extensive roof into three sections, reducing the risk of fire spread.
While the reopening of the towers signifies the completion of the main restoration phase, additional work remains. The cathedral’s apse, located at the eastern end, is slated for renovation. Jost emphasized that these ongoing efforts include repairs unrelated to the fire, aiming for a comprehensive restoration that enhances the cathedral’s overall appearance and structural integrity.
As Notre Dame continues its transformation, the ambition is clear: to ensure that this historic monument not only recovers from its past but thrives for future generations to enjoy.
