Paris (TDI): The iconic Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral reopened its doors on Saturday, five years after being ravaged by a devastating fire, in a grand ceremony attended by global leaders, faithful worshippers, and admirers.
China emerged as a pivotal partner in the restoration efforts, becoming the first country to sign an agreement with France for the project.
The five-year restoration, costing nearly €700 million, brought together over 2,000 craftsmen and experts, combining modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship.
A tribute film, projected on the cathedral’s facade, opened the event, displaying the words “Thank You” in multiple languages to honor those involved in the rescue and restoration.
Notably, in February 2024, experts from China’s Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum joined the restoration team in Paris, contributing to the preservation of wooden relics and other charred artifacts.
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Chinese specialists collaborated with their French counterparts on groundbreaking research, studying fire-damaged materials to develop enhanced fire-resistant technologies for cultural heritage preservation.
Zhou Ping, a deputy director of the Chinese museum, played a prominent role as the first non-French professional to work on Notre-Dame’s spire, Global Times reported.
Her expertise in marble cleaning and artifact conservation proved instrumental in the project.
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This collaboration marks a significant milestone in international cultural preservation, strengthening ties between China and France while ensuring the cathedral’s timeless legacy endures.
