Last time we viewed the pride of Paris it was covered in scaffolding, its roof burnt to a cinder and the whole area boarded up.

The disastrous fire in April 2019 caused by renovation materials igniting amongst the roof timbers left France reeling as one of their most revered buildings was threatened with complete destruction.

The bravery of multiple fire crews managed to contain the damage, which however was still extensive.

President Macron led a call to arms. The huge issue was an opportunity for the great cathedral to be reborn brighter and better. The nation rallied with businesses and individuals donating millions of euros so that the huge rebuilding and restoration job could begin.

Records needed to scrutinised to ensure that the interior could be restored to its former glory.

After over 5 years of painstaking work by an army of highly skilled artisans – architects, builders, carpenters, artists, craftsmen, Notre Dame could once more open its huge doors to the public.

The result has been truly amazing. The cathedral had been on the plain side with vast grey walls, but not anymore.

Vivid chapels, amazing stained glass windows, ornate artwork. Wonderful.

The throng was large but the wait to get in was well worth it. Beat the queues by pre-booking free tickets HERE.

Up to 15,000 reservations are released each day for timed entrance. Worth avoiding weekends too if you can.