Crown of Thorns Restored to Notre-Dame Cathedral After Five Years

The return of the Crown of Thorns to Notre-Dame marks a significant restoration moment for the iconic cathedral following the devastating 2019 fire.

In a heartfelt ceremony on Friday, the Crown of Thorns, an ancient relic believed by many to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion, was returned to Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Five years ago, the precious crown was rescued from the flames of a catastrophic fire that severely damaged the historic building. The restoration of this relic, encased in a gold and crystal tube, was officiated by the Archbishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich.

Originating from King Louis IX’s acquisition in Constantinople back in 1239, the Crown of Thorns has a rich history. Originally kept at the Sainte-Chapelle, it was transferred to Notre-Dame's treasury in 1806, where it remained until the fire, which also claimed the cathedral's wooden interiors and spire. Fortunately, a human chain formed by firefighters and police officers saved this and other vital artifacts during the inferno.

After being housed temporarily at the Louvre Museum, the Crown is now displayed in a new reliquary designed to replace the one from 1806. The return ceremony featured a procession that included members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, reflecting the significance of the moment for the Catholic community.

Public viewings of the Crown of Thorns are set to begin on January 10, as Notre-Dame itself reopened on December 8 following extensive renovations that cost around €700 million. The restoration effort involved an army of nearly 2,000 skilled tradespeople, including masons, carpenters, and art experts. French President Emmanuel Macron, who attended the reopening ceremony with global dignitaries, emphasized the importance of preserving the iconic cathedral's legacy, stating, "We must treasure this lesson of fragility, humility, and will."