Roselyne Bachelot's Emotional Return to Notre-Dame Cathedral
On December 7, 2024, Roselyne Bachelot, the former Minister of Culture of France, visited the Notre-Dame Cathedral for the first time since its restoration following the devastating fire on April 15, 2019. Overcome with emotion, Bachelot expressed her feelings to France 2 journalist Jeff Wittenberg, stating, "I'm going to start crying." As she entered the cathedral, she reflected on her initial visit among the rubble and dust, recalling the cathedral's beauty and the hard work of the thousands of workers involved in its reconstruction. "It’s too beautiful," she repeated, highlighting the significance of the moment for her and for the French people.
Bachelot described her first visit after the fire as an "absolute shock," noting the extensive damage the cathedral had suffered. She reminisced about the emotional impact of witnessing the reconstruction progress, particularly the re-erection of the spire, which she viewed as a testament to the skill and dedication of French artisans. During her tenure, she had confidently stated that the reopening of Notre-Dame would occur in 2024, a promise that has now come to fruition.
The reopening ceremonies, set to begin at 7 p.m. on the same day, will include a speech from President Emmanuel Macron, who had committed to an ambitious five-year restoration timeline. The event is expected to draw significant attention, with around 1,500 guests, including heads of state and a message from the Pope, marking a momentous occasion for France and its cultural heritage.
A Five-Year Journey of Restoration and Reflection
The journey to restore Notre-Dame has been a complex and emotional one, marked by both challenges and triumphs. The fire that ravaged the iconic cathedral not only captured the attention of the French public but also drew international interest. Journalists and media outlets closely followed the restoration efforts, documenting the intricate work that went into preserving this historic landmark.
Bachelot's reflections on her experiences during the restoration process reveal the depth of connection many feel towards Notre-Dame. Her visits, often in disposable clothing to comply with safety protocols, and her interactions with the workers on-site, have underscored the communal effort involved in bringing the cathedral back to life. As the reopening approaches, the significance of Notre-Dame as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity for the French people is more pronounced than ever.
