Notre-Dame Reopens After €700 Million Restoration; Over 50 Leaders, Including Trump and Prince William, Attend

Dec 6, 2024, 09:15 PM

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reopen after more than five years of restoration following a devastating fire on April 15, 2019. The reconstruction, which cost approximately 700 million euros ($882 million) and involved 2,500 trees, has restored the iconic landmark to its former glory. The reopening ceremonies will take place on December 7-8, with the cathedral opening to the public on December 8. French President Emmanuel Macron will host the event, which will be attended by over 50 world leaders, including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, making his first international trip since his election, Prince William, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Jill Biden. Macron is expected to hold separate bilateral meetings with Trump and Zelensky ahead of the ceremony, with a possible meeting between Trump and Zelensky. Craftsmen used traditional methods to rebuild the roof and spire, symbolizing a monumental effort to preserve France's cultural heritage. The reopening of Notre-Dame marks a significant moment for Paris, rejuvenating the heart of the city after the tragic fire that captured global attention.