The crucifix in the apse of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, which survived a devastating fire in 2019, was reinstalled on the cathedral’s framework on Friday after meticulous restoration by artistic ironworkers in Normandy.
The imposing cross, 12 metres long and weighing 1.5 tonnes, was the only part of the choir roof to survive the flames.
Workers celebrate after finishing the reinstallation of the Croix du Cheve (right) at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Friday, May 24, 2024. The Croix du Cheve was the only part of the cathedral’s roof that survived the devastating fire in April 2019. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)
Notre Dame Cathedral: Restoration Project Timeline
The cathedral is scheduled to reopen on December 8, 2024, and the ongoing restoration project involves around 250 companies and hundreds of craftsmen, architects and experts.
A fire on April 15, 2019 caused the collapse of Notre Dame’s spire and part of its roof. Five years later, restoration work has made great progress, including the reinstallation of the spire’s lead-covered needles.
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The 2019 fire was a major blow to the cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Christian icon that welcomes 12 million visitors each year.
