“Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral is not only a breathtaking masterpiece of Gothic architecture but also a symbol of European civilization and the power of its culture. Its reconstruction has brought together the entire global humanitarian community. This cathedral also holds special significance for Lithuania, reflecting deep historical ties with France. An interesting historical connection dates back 451 years, when Henry of Valois, the future ruler of Lithuania and Poland, signed the Henrician Articles in this very cathedral. These documents aimed to establish progressive principles of state governance,” President Gitanas Nausėda underlined.
The Head of State described the Cathedral’s reconstruction as an unparalleled example of global solidarity among Catholics, with support coming from over 150 countries and hundreds of thousands of donors, including philanthropists and organizations.
The re-opening ceremony of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral was attended by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Polish President Andrzej Duda, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, U.S. First Lady Jill Biden, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg and his wife Maria Teresa, among other dignitaries.
The restoration of the 850-year-old Notre-Dame Cathedral, damaged by fire in 2019, is celebrated as a symbol of collective historical memory. As the most important church in Paris, it stands as one of the most significant monuments of early Gothic architecture.
