Elizabeth Chabanov '28
Paris’ candle of passion has just been relit. France proudly shows the world the restored version of one of its greatest landmarks. Recovering from a horrible, destructive fire five years ago, the beautiful and historical Notre Dame Cathedral’s doors have just opened a few days ago.
The country’s importance and dedication to the arts, architecture, and history are being represented. When the fire hit the cathedral, many thought that all hope was lost and in this modern day in age the intricacy and beauty of its architecture could no longer be done. Yet France proved these theories wrong during this ceremony.
On December 8th, the medieval church’s “resurrection” was displayed through a beautiful traditional ceremony. It was attended by over 1500 people including 170 bishops and 40 heads of states, like the newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump and the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and even Britain’s Prince William, highlighting its significance.
It began with a symbol to end the five years of silence the church endured while being rebuilt, with The Notre Dame Bell, known as the bourdon, which echoed across the entirety of Paris. It also featured a prerecorded concert with talented artists and stunning clergy attire made by famous fashion designer Castelbajac.
This structure can be recognized for its beautiful yet gothic and intricate architecture which took almost 200 years to first create, making it stand out from the rest of the world’s modern and minimalist buildings. However, this is not the only reason for its well-deserved fame.
With it being built 800 years ago, historic French events which are related to this cathedral are never-ending, from inspirations for art, hosting royal weddings, famous artifacts like the crown of thorns Jesus Christ wore to coronations to known people like emperor Napoleon and more.
A notable inspiration for art can be connected to Victor Hugo, a famous author who wrote the classic novel Notre Dame de Paris which is about the cathedral itself. Hugo came up with the idea for it when he saw the word “fate” carved into the inner walls with a knife.
Now that this amazing historical and cultural monument has finally been reopened, it plans to continue regular masses and other ceremonies now and then.
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