During a grand ceremony with celebrity guests from all over the world, Notre Dame opened its doors on December 16 – after five years of renovation. During the following week, people have flocked to the cathedral, French media report. So far, over 260,000 people have visited the 850-year-old landmark in central Paris.
Notre Dame was forced to close in April 2019 after a fierce fire broke out. Suddenly, shocked Parisians saw flames bursting out of the building and when the cathedral's characteristic spire collapsed, people all over the world held their breath.
Since the reopening, between 30,000 to 35,000 people visit the cathedral daily, according to French BFMTV. But those who want to attend a mass will have to expect a long wait. There are only 1,500 seats available and they cannot be reserved.