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 five years after that catastrophe, we’ve finally got official news on when the site will again welcome the public.
8 December 2024 is the date that has been set for Notre-Dame’s reopening, meaning that’s when it’ll be back in use for religious practices and public use.
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.
Authorities have since chosen to rebuild it as it was. The 96-metre spire has been recreated and the cathedral’s iconic centrepiece has also been revived.
Originally, it was hoped that Notre-Dame might reopen in time for the Paris Olympics, 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 by this time next year. In the meantime, check out our list of the many, many reasons why the French capital should be on your travel bucket list.
Did you see that this European capital has been named the world’s best city destination in 2023?
Plus: Paris is getting a massive new metro system.
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