The reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral will be marked by a series of significant events, including one dedicated to the firefighters who fought the fire and the workers involved in the reconstruction. Starting in February, group pilgrim visits will begin, with around 37,000 people already registered for this purpose.
Archbishop Ulrich confirmed that visits to Notre Dame will continue to be free, thus maintaining the tradition prior to the fire. Although the proposal from the French Minister of Culture was to charge 5 euros per visitor to raise funds, the archbishop believes it is his duty to maintain free access to the cathedral.
The official reopening of Notre Dame is scheduled for the weekend of December 7 and 8, with events marking its return to activity after the fire in April 2019. The first day will feature a religious service attended by heads of state and foreign governments, followed by a grand consecration mass the next day.
Despite the absence of the Pope at the ceremony, the participation of about 150 bishops from around the world is expected, as well as selected faithful. The reopening will also include the presentation of new furniture, a renewed reliquary to display relics, tapestries by artist Miquel Barceló, and the resumption of musical concerts, including the cathedral's organ.
Archbishop Ulrich expressed his joy at the reopening of Notre Dame, emphasizing that it is a place for everyone, especially the most needy. After a week of thematic masses, partial individual visits will be allowed, welcoming those who wish to admire the cathedral's renewed beauty.
