Notre-Dame Cathedral Reopens After Extensive Restoration Following the 2019 Fire

Following the devastating fire in April 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris has reopened after 5½ years of restoration work. The project involved approximately 2,000 workers and craftsmen from various regions, including stone carvers, sculptors, carpenters, and organ builders. The initial focus was on securing the structure after the blaze destroyed the oak-timbered medieval roof and spire. Sculptor Philippe Jiraud contributed to carving new stones for the exterior decorations, while graphic designer Laurent Ungerer worked on reordering the interior and designing new branding, including a new font called Notre-Dame. The restoration aimed to preserve the designs of architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, who led the 19th-century restoration. The reopening was attended by world leaders, with French President Emmanuel Macron highlighting the project as a model for national endeavors.