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When Paris’ Notre-Dame cathedral caught fire and suffered enormous damage back in 2019, it was a devastating cultural event. One of the world’s most iconic works of medieval architecture, up in flames. But now, nearly four years after that catastrophe, we’ve finally got official news on when the site will reopen to the public.
December 2024 is the date that has been set for Notre-Dame’s renovation, meaning that’s when it’ll be back in use for religious practices and public use. However, that isn’t when it’ll be entirely finished, exactly. According to French culture minister Rima Abdul-Malak, renovation work will continue well into 2025.
In the years since Notre-Dame’s fire in April 2019, we’ve had a few hints at what the medieval cathedral might look like when it’s rebuilt. One plan suggested the new Notre-Dame could have a ‘Disney’ look with light and sound effects, while another proposed giving the area around the cathedral a big glow-up with greenery and an underground walkway.
Originally, it was hoped that Notre-Dame might reopen in time for the Paris Olympics, which are set to take place in summer 2024. However, due to complications in stabilising the structure, the project appears to have taken a little longer than expected.
In any case, this is great news! One of Paris’ all-time most iconic sights is set to reopen within the next two years. In the meantime, check out our list of the many, many reasons why the French capital should be on your travel bucket list.
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