In a poignant ceremony, the Crown of Thorns was returned to Notre-Dame Cathedral, marking a significant milestone in the restoration efforts following the 2019 fire.
Crown of Thorns Secured Back at Notre-Dame Cathedral Following Devastating Fire
Crown of Thorns Secured Back at Notre-Dame Cathedral Following Devastating Fire
The historic relic, believed to have been worn by Jesus at his crucifixion, is safely returned amid cathedral renovations.
An ancient relic of immense historical and religious significance, the Crown of Thorns, has triumphantly returned to Notre-Dame Cathedral, five years after it was miraculously saved from the catastrophic fire that severely affected the iconic church. Encased in a stunning crystal and gold tube, this cherished artefact is believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.
The ceremonial return took place under the supervision of the Archbishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich, and was attended by members of France’s Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, a distinguished Catholic knighthood. The esteemed crown was originally acquired by King Louis IX in 1239 in Constantinople, reflecting a staggering expense of 135,000 livres, nearly half the nation’s annual budget at the time.
Initially housed at the Sainte-Chapelle, the crown was later relocated to Notre-Dame's treasury in 1806. However, the devastating blaze in 2019 not only ravaged the cathedral’s wooden interiors but also led to the destruction of its spire. In an effort to save the Crown of Thorns and other precious artefacts, the brave actions of police and firefighters formed a human chain to protect history.
Following the fire, the crown found refuge at the Louvre Museum, where it remained while Notre-Dame underwent extensive renovations involving approximately 2,000 skilled artisans and an estimated cost of €700 million (£582 million). The newly-built reliquary, housing the Crown of Thorns, now stands as a replacement for the one from 1806.
As part of the return ceremony, the cathedral's doors reopened to the public on December 8, showcasing a beautifully restored structure. French President Emmanuel Macron, during the reopening ceremony attended by global leaders, remarked on the restoration's significance, emphasizing the lessons of humility and fragility it imparts. The Crown of Thorns will be showcased to the public starting January 10, allowing visitors to connect with this sacred piece of history in its newly appointed home.
