The dismantling of scaffolding around the summit of Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral commenced on Monday, nearly five years into the restoration efforts following the catastrophic fire in April 2019 that severely damaged the iconic structure, signalling a step closer to its anticipated revival.
Utilizing giant cranes to dismantle scaffold sections, workers revealed the cathedral’s newly installed spire, adorned with a golden rooster and a cross at its pinnacle. Despite the ongoing presence of scaffolding enveloping much of the cathedral, removing these structures from its uppermost part provides both onlookers and worshippers a preview of Notre Dame’s expected appearance upon the completion of its restoration.
Recent months have witnessed considerable advancements in the cathedral’s reconstruction, positioning it for a reopening on December 8—a moment much awaited by Parisians and the millions of tourists who visit annually.
While the cathedral will remain closed to visitors during the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, which start on July 26 and attract millions to the French capital, the completion of the spire and roof will offer a visually complete exterior.
The full removal of the remaining scaffolding is projected to extend over weeks, if not months, indicating the meticulous nature of the restoration process.
