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Notre Dame Reopens Restored Towers to Visitors

Access now follows a redesigned, timed route with strict capacity limits to safeguard the cathedral.

Overview

  • President Emmanuel Macron toured the towers on Friday ahead of the public reopening this weekend.
  • The 45‑minute climb spans 424 steps from the south tower to terraces at 69 meters before exiting via the north tower, including a close view of the 13.3‑ton Emmanuel bell and a new oak double‑spiral staircase.
  • Tickets cost €16 and must be reserved online, with capacity capped at about 400,000 visitors a year, roughly 1,400 entries per day in peak season and groups limited to 19 at a time.
  • The restoration prioritized the north tower, replacing charred beams, lowering and inspecting eight bells, renewing the lead roof, and installing upgraded fire‑safety and visitor infrastructure.
  • The wider reconstruction continues under a phased program, with upcoming work focused on renewing the apse.