Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral is set to reopen next month, five years after a devastating fire nearly destroyed the world-famous Catholic cathedral.
Notre Dame has been closed since the fire on April 15, 2019. The fire, which authorities said was accidental, engulfed Notre-Dame, causing extensive damage to the building, including destroying its roof and iconic spire.
Officials said it will reopen its doors on Dec. 7 and 8, 2024.
“This is a very big moment, eagerly awaited by the whole world,” National Geographic quoted Olivier Josse, secretary general for the cathedral, as saying. “The great joy in reopening corresponds to intense anticipation, manifested by a desire to come and rediscover Notre Dame. If I have to use just one word, it’s patience—everyone will need to show patience.”
Construction of the cathedral began in 1163 on Île de la Cité during the reign of King Louis VII. While it was largely completed by 1345, many modifications and additions were made in the following centuries.
