Notre-Dame de Paris -- April 2024
When I think of Paris, there are two iconic sights that come to mind immediately. One is the Eiffel Tower, as seen in the posters above, and the other is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris.
I first saw Notre Dame in 1966 and there aren't many buildings that have surpassed it in my thoughts and memories. I, and millions of others, were devastated at the fire that took place in the Cathedral in April 2019. The photographs were horrifying and it seemed, Notre Dame could never been rebuilt.
But five plus years later and the extraordinary work of thousands, Notre Dame has been rebuilt and and opened back to the public. I was hoping that it would be open during my visit last April, but alas, it would be over half a year until the Cathedral would reopen.
Watching the construction taking place last spring
It was a thrill to see the reopening of the Cathedral yesterday. The first mass since the fire was held this morning continuing a centuries long tradition of a church on this site. The first cathedral in Paris was built in the fourth century and the first stone of Notre Dame was laid in 1163. Almost 900 years later the Cathedral of Paris is open once again for prayer and worship.
Life in New York has been hectic. I've got a long list of things I'd like to do in the next few weeks and as ever, the days are slipping away. I had a wonderful visit with K in New York last week. We spent time laughing, catching up and seeing the sights of New York City in December. I've got several posts to share and hope to post them this week.
As ever, thanks for visiting and keep cozy!
3 comments
Thanks for the musing - Neal saw the scaffolded Cathedral when we were in Paris in 2022. Neal makes a modest gift each year now, so I guess we helped (a tiny bit) with the rebuild. Not convinced we will get back to Paris, but you never know💜❗️😋
I remember when the cathedral burnt. Glad to see it back up.
I bet New York is really hustling and bustling this time of year. Exciting!
Yes, and yes on Notre Dame. I remember the day of the fire, where I was when I learned and the shock of it all. And now. Magnificent. That first photo -- magnificent. I just adore that! Sending all wonderful wishes for the holiday soon, along with a "real" note. Life seems to overtake life these days.
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