“Macron commends ‘impossible’ restoration efforts at Notre-Dame” – BBC.com

French President Emmanuel Macron has praised the “impossible” restoration efforts being made to rebuild the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris after it was devastated by a fire last year.

Speaking at a meeting with workers involved in the restoration project, Macron lauded their dedication and commitment to bringing the historic cathedral back to its former glory. He described their efforts as “extraordinary” and emphasized the importance of preserving the cultural and historical significance of Notre-Dame.

The fire, which broke out on April 15, 2019, caused extensive damage to the cathedral, destroying its spire and roof. The incident sparked an outpouring of grief and support from around the world, with millions of euros being pledged towards the restoration efforts.

Despite facing setbacks due to the coronavirus pandemic and strict lockdown measures in France, workers have continued to make progress on the restoration project. Macron expressed confidence that Notre-Dame would be restored to its former beauty, calling it a symbol of France’s resilience and determination.

The restoration efforts have been described as a “Herculean task” by experts, with challenges ranging from stabilizing the structure to sourcing materials that match the cathedral’s original design. However, Macron’s praise for the workers and their unwavering commitment highlights the importance of preserving Notre-Dame for future generations to appreciate and admire.