The echoes of psalms and hymns resounded hauntingly throughout Paris.
Musical chords reached the ears of those beyond the recently rejuvenated walls of Notre-Dame.
In spite of the frigid temperatures and relentless rain, throngs gathered along the Seine to witness and connect with this cherished French landmark during its moment of glory.
The lights that illuminated the spire and enveloped the cathedral transformed it into a magnificent focal point of the city this evening.
Joyful tears flowed among some spectators, sheltered under umbrellas, who came to observe and experience the historic reopening from afar.
It was not only the faithful who gathered; tourists journeyed from distant locales to witness the cathedral’s resurgence from the ruins.
The term ‘merci’ was projected onto the façade of the cathedral. Pic: AP
A woman hailing from the United States referred to it as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience”.
It was utterly astonishing,” she expressed, “it’s challenging to articulate the emotions I felt witnessing it all illuminated and hearing the music. I adored it.”
An attendee from Paris recounted how her heart “shattered” during the blaze that unfolded five and a half years prior, “and now the city has reclaimed its essence”.
Some individuals were observed praying reverently on their knees in the dampness. A man from Spain, overwhelmed with excitement, high-fived me while exclaiming one word, “incredible”.
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A clergy member, Father Maxime Deurbergue, who dedicated the last two and a half years to aiding the restoration efforts inside the cathedral, referred to it as a “spiritual beacon”.
He articulated the collaboration of various artisans and workers over the course of the restoration, stating: “All that humanity can achieve at its finest is gathered here in a harmonious manner.”
The marvel of this renovation lies not only in the swift completion but in the remarkable fusion of history, contemporaneity, and the promise of the future.
It has retained its historical significance while incorporating modern technologies to safeguard its legacy for centuries ahead.
As the audience applauded the illuminated “merci” displayed in different languages across its walls – it has become increasingly evident, since the fall of Notre-Dame, that this element of French cultural identity transcends national boundaries.
