Notre Dame is now just a month away from re-opening to Parisians and visitors, a moment brought to mind last Friday by the first ringing of the cathedral’s bells since the disastrous April 2019 fire.
The installation included three new bells, one of which was cast for last summer’s Olympic Games in Paris. The ringing of the bells was both a celebration and a sound check for the bells, which range in size from four tons to 800 kg.
No specifics have been given yet for the December 7th and 8th opening ceremonies, although there have been rumors that Paul McCartney, who is scheduled to perform in Paris December 4th and 5th might have a part.
The repair of the extensive damage has cost over €750 million, largely covered from €867 million in donations that poured in after the fire. The balance of the funds will go toward restoration work on the eastern walls of the cathedral, largely unscathed by the fire but in need of work.
