Restored Notre-Dame Cathedral to reopen in December after fire
Notre-Dame Cathedral. Photo: screenshot from Euronews video
President Emmanuel Macron pledged that Notre-Dame Cathedral will be restored and ready to welcome its first visitors by December 8 after the fire, according to Euronews.
On June 20, at a height of 33 meters above ground level, final work was carried out on the oculus at the base of the spire.
Restorers also reinstated the painted canvas "Virgin and Child" based on the design by architect Viollet-le-Duc, who restored the cathedral in the 19th century, returning it to its original location. This area had been left gaping after the fire. One of the four angels decorating the oculus had fallen, breaking its wings. All cherubs were reproduced by sculptors and regilded.
Currently, craftsmen are completing the roof and spire cladding; heavy precision-machined structures need to be adjusted to the millimeter.
Five years ago, extensive investigations began into the cause of the fire at the cathedral. Investigators ruled out the possibility of deliberate arson. Suspicions against the 15 workers who were questioned were dismissed.
"New analyses may be conducted using the most advanced procedures, as science is constantly evolving. Perhaps new research will bring new elements," said fire expert Serge Delaie.
As reported earlier, former French Culture Minister Roselyne Bachelot revealed that France's First Lady Brigitte Macron had envisioned creating a spire for Notre-Dame Cathedral resembling a phallus with golden balls.
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