Crown of Thorns makes a haunting return to Notre Dame after fire tragedy

In France, a significant milestone was reached in the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral when an ancient relic, revered by many Christians as Jesus Christ's Crown of Thorns, was brought back to the cathedral on January 10, 2024. This momentous occasion took place five years after the catastrophic fire on April 15, 2019, which devastated the iconic structure and prompted a large-scale restoration effort. The return of the relic to its historic home was celebrated with a solemn ceremony, presided over by the Archbishop of Paris and attended by members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher. The Crown of Thorns is a circular band of branches encased in a gilded tube, deeply significant in Christian faith. Its history dates back to the 5th century when it was first mentioned by pilgrims to Jerusalem. Over the centuries, the relic was transferred to Constantinople and later acquired by King Louis IX of France in 1239, who initially housed it at Notre Dame and subsequently commissioned the Sainte-Chapelle for its safekeeping. Following various historical events, including the 2019 fire, the relic was preserved thanks to the rapid actions of firefighters. Starting January 10, the Crown of Thorns will be displayed for public veneration every Friday until April 18, 2024, culminating on Good Friday, with plans to exhibit the relic on the first Friday of each month thereafter. This public display is expected to draw numerous visitors, reminiscent of past traditions of veneration at Notre Dame before the fire. The restoration of the cathedral, anticipated to be completed within a remarkable five-year timeframe, illustrates the French ability to achieve grand projects with efficiency. The ongoing restoration work aims not only to restore Notre Dame’s historic structure but also to bring back its cultural and spiritual significance. The cathedral, which originally started construction in 1163, showcases remarkable medieval architecture that emphasized structural minimalism while maximizing stained glass illumination. The cathedral's interior restoration includes the return of its original medieval stained glass that remarkably withstood the fire, ensuring that the spiritual essence of the space is preserved for future generations. As this historic monument is rebuilt, the return of sacred relics signifies both continuity and renewal in its storied legacy, instilling hope and attracting visitors who cherish its history.