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Reopening of Notre Dame: Macron thanks rescuers and helpers!
World leaders gather in Paris for the reopening of Notre Dame, five years after the devastating fire. Macron thanks the helpers.
Reopening of Notre Dame: Macron thanks rescuers and helpers!
In a dazzling spectacle that captivated the world, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris finally reopened its doors after five years of restoration! An event that not only made the hearts of the French beat faster, but also those of the international community.
On Saturday evening the time had come: Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich led the ceremony, which was attended by high-ranking heads of state, including French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron, who gave a moving speech to those present, thanked everyone who contributed to the rescue and restoration of the iconic structure. “The bells of Notre Dame will ring again tonight,” he announced proudly.
A symbol of hope
The cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture from the 12th century, was severely damaged by a devastating fire in 2019. Flames had turned the roof into an inferno and sent massive clouds of smoke over Paris. But the world stood together: nearly $1 billion in donations were raised to resurrect the cathedral. And the result? A stunning restored building with a new tower and crisp white stone trim that sparkles in the city light.
The firefighters who fought tirelessly against the flames were honored with a standing ovation during the opening ceremony. The word “merci” shone on the cathedral’s facade – a heartfelt thank you to all those who worked for the reconstruction.
Politics and diplomacy in the shadow of the cathedral
But as the bells ring, Macron faces a political crisis in France. Just a few days earlier, Parliament had dismissed its prime minister. Analysts suspect the cathedral's opening could be a clever distraction from domestic political turmoil. Macron took the opportunity to hold closed-door talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. A meeting that took place amid uncertainty over future U.S. support for Ukraine.
Zelensky described the meeting as “good and productive” and emphasized the common desire for a just peace. “We all want this war to end as quickly as possible,” he wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
The reopening of Notre Dame is not only a triumphant moment for Paris, but also a sign of hope and solidarity in difficult times. An event that captivates the world and celebrates the unwavering strength of human community.