The spire of the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, destroyed by fire, has been reconstructed, according to France24.com. For some time, the structure, identical to the one that burned down four years ago, will be surrounded by scaffolding. The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris is scheduled for December 2024.

The scaffolding around the reconstructed spire is expected to be removed on Christmas Eve, celebrated on December 25 in the Western tradition. In 2019, a powerful fire engulfed the Notre-Dame Cathedral, causing extensive damage. The flames raged for more than 12 hours, resulting in the destruction of the cathedral's interior, damage to its facade, and the collapse of the spire and part of the roof. One theory suggests that the tragedy might have been caused by electrical issues or negligence.

The new spire is a faithful replica of its 19th-century predecessor designed by architect Viollet-le-Duc. Constructed from oak wood and covered with lead, the restored spire stands at a height of 96 meters.

The fire in the summer of 2019 destroyed the unique wooden framework of the cathedral's roof, including eight-century-old oak beams, each crafted from a single tree trunk. To restore the spire of Notre-Dame, as well as the upper galleries and transept, a thousand oaks were sourced from across France, and the preparation of the logs began in 2022.

Photo: © Ludovic Marin, AFP