PARIS — Following over five years of intensive restoration, Notre Dame Cathedral unveiled its renewed interior on Friday, showcasing rebuilt high ceilings and pristine stonework that belie the devastating 2019 fire.
Live footage of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit depicted the cathedral’s interior as it might have appeared in medieval times—vast, open spaces bathed in sunlight on a clear winter day, highlighting the vibrant stained-glass windows.
While the exterior remains a construction site, the renovated interior—revealed publicly for the first time on Friday before the December 8th public reopening—was awe-inspiring.
Stonemasons repaired the damaged ceilings
The gaping holes and charred debris left by the fire in the vaulted ceilings have been meticulously repaired with new stonework. Restored golden angels adorn a rebuilt ceiling section above the transept.
The cathedral’s cream-colored limestone walls appear newly cleaned, free of both fire residue and centuries of accumulated grime.
Before the April 15, 2019, fire, the cathedral drew millions of visitors annually. The fire forced its closure, making it inaccessible to all but those involved in its reconstruction.
Macron entered through the cathedral’s grand, intricately carved doors and gazed at the restored ceilings in wonder, accompanied by his wife, Brigitte, the Archbishop of Paris, and others.
A blend of modern and traditional methods
Powerful vacuums initially removed toxic dust from the fire’s melting of the cathedral’s lead roof.
Subsequently, fine layers of latex were applied and removed, lifting away dirt. Cleaning gels were also used on painted walls, revealing vibrant original colors.
Carpenters employed traditional techniques, hand-hewing massive oak beams for the roof and spire reconstruction. The beams bear the marks of hand axes.
Approximately 2,000 oak trees were used to create the intricate roof framework, nicknamed “the forest.”
A preview before the official reopening
Macron’s visit initiated events leading to the 12th-century Gothic masterpiece’s reopening.
He will return on December 7th to address attendees and participate in the new altar’s consecration during a Mass the following day.
Macron’s administration views the reconstruction as a symbol of national unity and French resilience.