1. enrich the experience with new pathways

on December 8, 2024, Notre Dame Cathedralreopened its doors after a five-year restoration. The new pathway allows visitors to enter from the “Last Judgment” door and explore the interior of the cathedral from north to south. The sculptural walls depicting the life and resurrection of Christ come closer and closer, and digital guides and applicationshelp visitors navigate their way through the cathedral until they reach the south exit with views of the Seine.

2. restoration art at the fingertips of French craftsmen

the 96-meter Gothicspire , designedby Viollet Le Duc in the 19th century, was restored to its original form, while the interior altar was reimagined in bronze by French designer Guillaume Bardet. Even the wooden roof, baptismalfont, lectern, and vases were reinvented using a combination of modern technology and artisanal craftsmanship.

the 12-meter-high asymmetrical staircase was designed by Normandy craftsmen who worked on the restoration of Versailles and Mont Saint-Michel, while the restoration and cleaning of the cathedral’s bellswas undertaken by the Cornille Abar foundry, representing the essence of the French bell-making tradition. they also created the “Victory Bell” for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

3. from liturgical vestments to pews, details that changed

the 700 liturgical vestments were created by designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajacin collaboration with a French workshop, and the 1,500 chairsare made from French oak. The cathedral also introduced biodegradable votive candles for added sustainability.

the seven new tapestriesthat will adorn the cathedral’s walls are being made by the French National Manufacturing Workshop, which currently houses contemporary works by Michelangelo and Michael Armitage.

4. stained glass and space development projects

the six stained glass windowsin the south chapel were created by contemporary artists selected through an international competition, while the original glass panes were transferred to a museum in the Hôtel Dieu. a new visual experiencefills the interior of the cathedral, blending Gothic and contemporary art.

in addition, the city of Paris will be redesigning the square over the next three years with the Place Notre-Dame redevelopment project, creating amenities such as bookstores, cafes, and restrooms to provide a more pleasant viewing experience.