Notre Dame Cathedral unveils new interior 5 years after devastating fire

The newly renovated interior of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has been revealed for the first time since reconstruction began over five years ago. The iconic 12th-century landmark welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, for a preview of its new design that honors the original construction destroyed in the devastating 2019 fire. Macron was impressed by the renewed windows and cleaned white stones, as well as the new wooden beams on the roof, which had to be replaced after the fire. The restoration project, which took roughly five years, included repairing stained glass windows, the roof, and flying buttresses. The cathedral is set to officially reopen on December 7, showcasing its restored spire, gargoyles, and the rescued statue of the Virgin with Child. The structure will also have a new $150 million surplus fund for protection.