Notre-Dame's Spiritual Resurgence: Visitors Find Profound Experiences as Restoration Advances
Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is witnessing a spiritual resurgence, with visitors reporting profound experiences and some even turning to confession. Meanwhile, preparations for the cathedral's physical restoration are advancing, with the e-ticketing system for tower visits set to launch in September.
The spiritual revival coincides with record-breaking visitor numbers. Over 32,500 people flock to the cathedral daily, totaling more than five million since the start of the year. The restoration, too, is making strides. The 16 statues, designed by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, have been meticulously restored at a cost of $1.64 million, with 85% funded by the Fondation Notre Dame and the rest by the Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris. These statues, including the notable St. Thomas bearing Viollet-le-Duc's likeness, will return to their original positions by the end of July.
Notre Dame Cathedral's spiritual awakening and physical restoration continue apace. With record visitor numbers, restored statues, and upcoming e-ticketing for tower visits, the iconic landmark remains a beacon of faith and fascination. The controversial window replacement project and the completion of roof reconstruction are expected to conclude in the coming years.
