Towers of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral reopen to the public with new immersive circuit

Following the massive fire in 2019 of the gothic jewel of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, reconstruction and restoration of the monument took three years. After three years of reconstruction, the restored cathedral nave reopened on 7 December 2024. Although reopened, Notre-Dame restoration is due to continue until 2027. This includes restoration of the chevet and sacristy and the installation of stained glass windows. The city of Paris will also reshape the square in front of the cathedral with added greenery.

However, a new milestone is marked on September 20 with the reopening of the towers. A new circuit is to be proposed to visitors. The tower climbing now comprises a newly created scenography.

In the first room, which serves as an introduction to the visit, educational markers on the major stages of the cathedral’s construction and the main events of its history is now provided thru models that also allow visitors to visualize the different spaces they pass thru. Original chimeras, emblematic of the medieval imagination that inhabits the towers and Viollet-le-Duc* architectural gesture, are presented there.

A second room proposes a soundscape evoking major events in French history on which the bourdons (lowest bells) resonated. A double-helical oak staircase, created for this new circuit, allows for an unprecedented ascent thru the framework of the belfry.

Paris panorama with chimeras

The exceptional 360-degree panorama offered from the south tower over Paris and the spire is accompanied by orientation tables, at a height of 69 meters. The descent of the staircase will lead to the cistern courtyard, which connects the two towers, first passing thru a walkway providing access to the bourdons. From this courtyard, an unprecedented view of the framework of the great roof, the famous “forest” above the nave, is offered. Visitors will also have a glimpse of the chimeras located above.

The tour is enhanced by an artistic sound experience, specially designed for this reopening, to ease the descent down the spiral staircase of the north tower, gradually preparing visitors for their return to the city. This redevelopment was carried out with the generous support of the American foundation Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris.

Warning for visitors -and booking travel agents!

The ascent to the top of the south tower is a sporting experience. A good physical condition is required as the circuit includes 424 steps, narrow passages (45 cm) and low ceiling passages. There is no elevator, water point or restrooms. Bottles of water to take with are allowed and even recommended.

The circuit is consequently not recommended for people with heart failure and/or prone to dizziness, as well as pregnant women and young children.

Given the expected turnout, online booking is compulsory -including for visitors benefiting of discounts or a free entrance. Only individual visitors are allowed. Online booking opened on September 15. 

* Viollet-le-Duc was a French architect, famous for his restoration of the most prominent medieval landmarks in France. Notre-Dame cathedral was restored between 1844 and 1864 with the addition of the gothic spire on the roof. 

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