The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris opened its restored doors to the world Saturday, marking a significant milestone in its history after a fire ravaged the iconic landmark in 2019.

The event attemded by President-elect Donald Trump, was celebrated as a triumph of human effort and global collaboration, showcasing the successful completion of a five-year restoration project after its devastating fire, as Newsmax reports.

The reopening drew global attention and was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Trump.

Making his first international appearance since the election, Trump praised the restoration work, calling it a remarkable achievement. The current first lady, Jill Biden, represented the United States in place of President Joe Biden.

Cathedral's Restoration Journey

The catastrophic fire in 2019 set off urgent alarms worldwide as it gutted the Notre Dame’s roof and spire. It prompted an outpouring of international support, leading to a monumental restoration campaign that saw contributions from all corners of the globe. The project cost a total of $750 million and involved meticulous craftsmanship to restore the cathedral’s architectural details.

Master artisans deployed traditional skills in cleaning the limestone walls and rebuilding the iconic vaulted wooden roof. This roofing project included sourcing the finest ancient oak from France's forests. Despite initial estimates suggesting that the work could take decades, the restoration was completed in five years, underscoring the commitment and tenacity of those involved.

Reopening Ceremony's Key Moments

Saturday’s ceremony began with Archbishop Laurent Ulrich opening the historic doors, ushering in a series of events that celebrated this architectural resurrection. The elaborate two-hour ceremony included prayer sessions, soulful organ music, and hymns that resonated throughout the majestic interiors of the cathedral.

A televised concert also marked the occasion, featuring internationally acclaimed artists such as Lang Lang, Pretty Yende, and Pharrell Williams.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the event had to adapt to the elements. Storm Darragh brought 50 mph winds and red alerts, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to move his anticipated speech indoors and schedule the concert's recording ahead of time.

Bringing World Leaders Together

The reopening of Notre Dame brought together prominent leaders, including Britain's Prince William and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Although Pope Francis could not attend in person, he sent a heartfelt message that was read aloud during the ceremony, emphasizing the cathedral’s universal cultural significance.

Macron hosted the event, emphasizing the themes of resilience and unity. He sought to inspire the nation to look beyond its current political and economic challenges and see Notre Dame as a symbol of what could be achieved through collective effort.

"This is the proof that we know how to do grand things. We know how to do the impossible," Macron stated, highlighting France's capacity for monumental achievements.

Sunday Services and Broader Impact

The reopening festivities extended into Sunday with services that welcomed both clergy and the general public. The initial mass at 10:30 a.m. saw participation from 170 bishops and 100 priests from Parisan parishes. Later in the day, a second service opened its doors to the wider public, reinforcing Notre Dame’s role as a spiritual haven and a community cornerstone.

President-elect Trump echoed Macron’s sentiments, acknowledging the French leader’s role in spearheading the restoration efforts. He described the project as an undertaking that has not only brought Notre Dame back to its former glory but has possibly even enhanced its allure.

Global Response to Crisis

The restoration journey reflects an astonishing collective effort, both in terms of financial support and traditional craftsmanship. Audrey Azoulay, the head of UNESCO, commended the achievement, recognizing it as a testament to French skills and a restoration that sees the masterpiece regain its iconic splendor.

The lingering question of how the initial fire started has never been fully answered, though investigators suggest an accidental cause, possibly an electrical fault. This uncertainty continues to hover over the otherwise jubilant celebration of its restoration.

Notre Dame in the World’s Eyes

Notre Dame Cathedral stands as more than just an architectural marvel; it represents a living history and a symbol of resilience. Its successful restoration echoes as a beacon of hope and accomplishment, reflecting human perseverance across borders.

As the world looks on, the restored Notre Dame shines in its renewed glory, inviting future generations to admire its beauty and the timeless grandeur that has once again found its rightful place in the heart of Paris.