Notre Dame Cathedral is set to reopen this weekend after over five years of restoration following the devastating 2019 fire. The rebirth of the iconic structure will be marked by exclusive ceremonies featuring high-profile guests, religious rituals, and a musical celebration, all under tight security. The Ile de la Cité, where Notre Dame is located, will be sealed off to tourists from Saturday evening through Sunday night. Only invited guests and residents will have access, with security measures mirroring those used during the Paris Olympics. Around 50 heads of state and government are expected to attend, according to Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez. The reopening service on Saturday will be led by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, who will symbolically reopen the cathedral doors and reawaken its grand organ, painstakingly restored after the fire. The service will include psalms, prayers, and music, with French President Emmanuel Macron addressing VIP attendees. A star-studded concert will follow, featuring performances by artists such as Lang Lang, Yo-Yo Ma, and Angelique Kidjo. Public viewing areas along the Seine will accommodate up to 40,000 spectators, allowing them to watch the events on screens. Sunday's celebrations will include an inaugural Mass and consecration of the new altar, attended by bishops, priests, and representatives from across France. A "fraternal buffet" for the needy will conclude the historic weekend. (With inputs from AP)
