7 Dec: US President-elect Donald Trump joined French President Emmanuel Macron and a host of global leaders in Paris for the grand reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. The iconic structure, ravaged by a devastating fire in 2019, has been meticulously restored over five years in what Macron hailed as a monumental achievement of unity and determination.
The ceremony, attended by leaders including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and the Prince of Wales, showcased the completion of a project that brought together contributions from across the world. Macron addressed the gathering, emphasizing the global collaboration and determination that turned his pledge to rebuild the cathedral into reality. “We decided to rebuild Notre Dame more beautiful than ever,” he said, praising the efforts of artisans, engineers, and donors.
Donald Trump’s presence underscored the international significance of the event, as the cathedral stands as both a symbol of France’s heritage and a beacon of global cultural and historical importance. This marked one of Trump’s first major diplomatic appearances since his recent election victory, adding a layer of political gravitas to the ceremony.
The fire of April 2019 had left Notre Dame in ruins, with its roof and spire destroyed and parts of its structure severely damaged. However, a Herculean effort involving 2,000 workers, 250 companies, and traditional craftsmanship restored the cathedral to its original brilliance. The project, costing €700 million, was funded by €850 million in global donations.
During the ceremony, the cathedral’s iconic bells rang out once again, including the Emmanuel bell, which has been part of Paris’s soundscape since 1683. The cathedral’s historic organ, which survived the fire but was contaminated by lead particles, was also reactivated after extensive restoration.
Inside the cathedral, Trump, Macron, and other dignitaries marveled at the restored interior, described as a “shock of the new” with its vibrant colors and intricate details revived. The archbishop of Paris led a traditional rite to reopen the cathedral, knocking on its massive doors with a crozier crafted from a salvaged beam.
Trump expressed his admiration for the restoration, calling it a “testament to human resilience and ingenuity.” His presence alongside other world leaders highlighted the global unity that the cathedral’s restoration symbolizes.
The evening ended with the singing of the Te Deum, a hymn of praise, as the cathedral prepares to welcome worshippers and visitors once again. With Notre Dame expected to attract 15 million visitors annually, it reclaims its place as a cornerstone of cultural and spiritual life in Paris.
The ceremony served as a reminder of the power of global cooperation in preserving history and heritage, with Trump’s participation adding a notable diplomatic dimension to the momentous occasion.
Blue Techker I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great content.