Notre-Dame Cathedral Reopens, Prince Albert Celebrates with Global Leaders

Notre-Dame de Paris celebrated its reopening with a grand ceremony, following extensive restorations after the 2019 fire that devastated the historic cathedral. The event, presided over by French President Emmanuel Macron, was attended by global dignitaries, including HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. The presence of Prince Albert highlighted the strong cultural and historical bonds between Monaco and France, underscoring the shared reverence for Notre-Dame as an emblem of resilience and cultural heritage.

The ceremony also drew other European royalty such as Belgium’s King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, and political figures from around the world, emphasizing the global significance of the cathedral's restoration. Notable attendees included former French Presidents Nicolas Sarkozy and François Hollande, U.S. First Lady Jill Biden, and leaders from various nations. This collective international presence underscored the universal value of Notre-Dame, transcending beyond mere architectural restoration to symbolize a beacon of hope and renewal.

In his address, President Macron lauded the efforts of the 2,000 workers involved in the cathedral's restoration, marking the occasion as a triumph of dedication and craftsmanship. Meanwhile, Prince Albert shared his personal reflections with the press, noting the profound emotional impact of witnessing the cathedral's revival firsthand. He described the ceremony as not only a celebration of restoration but also a powerful message of hope and continuity, resonant with the spirit of both the French and Monegasque people.