In a recent interview with EWTN News, the mastermind behind the Notre-Dame reconstruction, Philippe Villeneuve, shared a personal revelation that has remained under wraps for five years. The chief architect disclosed his profound connection to the Virgin Mary, crediting her divine support for the successful restoration of the Parisian cathedral, which was ravaged by a devastating fire in April 2019.
Villeneuve, who refrained from discussing his faith publicly due to his role in a secular republic, now feels compelled to share his devotion to the Mother of God. “I never stopped feeling support from above,” he said. “I don’t think this project would have been possible otherwise. I think that gave me the strength and determination to continue.”
The fire left the cathedral in ruins, with the roof, truss, spire, and three vault sections destroyed. However, Villeneuve found hope when he discovered that the stained glass windows, the large 19th-century organ, and numerous furnishings and paintings had survived the blaze.
Under Villeneuve’s guidance, in collaboration with architects Remi Fromont and Pascal Prunet, an international team of 2,000 craftsmen worked tirelessly to rebuild the world-famous church in record time. The architect was “really impressed by the beauty,by the work,by the quality of the work” as Notre Dame was ceremoniously reopened last weekend.
As a symbol of hope and faith, a new golden rooster designed by Villeneuve, containing relics from the burned cathedral, was installed at the top of the spire during the restoration process.
He spire, and several other sections severely damaged.Villeneuve emphasized that the restoration process has been both a professional challenge and a spiritual journey. His reliance on divine inspiration, particularly his connection to the Virgin Mary, has provided him with the fortitude to overcome obstacles that arose during the reconstruction.
He expressed that this personal revelation was not only a turning point for him but also a reminder of the importance of faith in monumental endeavors. Villeneuve’s decision to come forward now reflects a sense of duty to acknowledge the spiritual dimensions intertwined with the physical restoration of such an iconic structure. His commitment to honoring the legacy of Notre-Dame goes beyond architectural integrity; it embodies a deep thankfulness for the cultural and spiritual heritage it represents.
As Notre-Dame continues to rise from the ashes,Villeneuve believes that the cathedral’s restoration is not just about rebuilding bricks and mortar but also about reviving the hope and faith of the people who cherish it. His journey illustrates how profound personal beliefs can influence and inspire large-scale projects, intertwining the sacred with the secular in a historic narrative of renewal.
