The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is one step closer to its full restoration as the scaffolding that covered its top following a devastating fire in April 2019 is being removed. This marks a significant milestone in the cathedral’s reconstruction, as it reveals the new spire adorned with a golden rooster and cross for the first time. The sight of the spire has evoked strong emotions from locals, offering a glimmer of hope and beauty amidst the tragedy.
Frederico Benani, a resident near the cathedral who witnessed the blaze, expressed his emotional response to seeing the spire once again. “I can open the window in the morning. I see Notre Dame. I see the spire—it’s for me, beautiful and it’s much better (than) before,” he said. This sentiment is shared by many who have eagerly awaited the restoration of this beloved landmark.
Investigations into the cause of the fire have pointed to an electrical short-circuit as the likely culprit. The anticipation among Paris residents is palpable as they look forward to the reopening of Notre Dame, scheduled for December 8. French President Emmanuel Macron had made a commitment to rebuild the cathedral within five years, and progress has been made with the help of skilled craftsmen from various specialties.
However, it is important to note that the cathedral will not be accessible to the public during the Paris Olympics in July and August, as the city prepares to host millions of visitors for the Summer Games. The removal of scaffolding around the cathedral may take several weeks or even months, as it was estimated that around 70,000 pieces of scaffolding, weighing a staggering 600 tons, were used to protect the spire alone.
Amidst the restoration efforts, symbols of resilience and renewal have emerged. A new golden rooster, reimagined as a phoenix with flaming feathers, was installed atop the spire in December, serving as a powerful reminder of the cathedral’s rise from the ashes. Additionally, measures have been taken to enhance the safety of the cathedral, including the implementation of an anti-fire misting system beneath its roof and the recreation of the original cross.
The restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral is not only a testament to human determination and craftsmanship but also a symbol of hope for the future. The outpouring of support from people around the world, who have pledged over $1 billion towards its reconstruction, demonstrates the global significance of this architectural masterpiece. As the scaffolding is gradually removed, revealing the new spire and rooster, it becomes clear that Notre Dame will once again stand tall, inspiring awe and admiration for generations to come.