After the Fire: The Restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris with Philippe Villeneuve (in French)

Thursday, December 11, 2025 From 1:00 PM To 2:00 PM Add to Calendar 2025-12-11 13:00:00 2025-12-11 14:00:00 After the Fire: The Restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris with Philippe Villeneuve (in French) This lecture will provide a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most significant architectural restoration projects of our time, describing the painstaking process behind the meticulous rebuilding and restoration of the cathedral, from the careful documentation of architectural elements to the revival of centuries-old craftsmanship techniques. French Library, 53 Marlborough Street, Boston, MA America/New_York

At French Library

This lecture will provide a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most significant architectural restoration projects of our time, describing the painstaking process behind the meticulous rebuilding and restoration of the cathedral, from the careful documentation of architectural elements to the revival of centuries-old craftsmanship techniques.

Thanks to global donations and the work of dedicated craftsmen, the extensive fire damage was repaired in record time, and the rebuilt cathedral reopened almost exactly one year ago, ready to reclaim its place as a symbol of Paris and French heritage.

But wait: There is still more work to be done. The lecture will conclude with the restoration works unrelated to the damage caused by the 2019 fire that will continue for the next five years.

This talk will be conducted in French. When you join the Zoom event, you can choose translated captions in either English or French.

In French

FREE

Philippe Villeneuve is the Chief Architect of Historic Monuments in France and is best known as the lead architect overseeing the restoration of Notre-Dame Cathedral after the 2019 fire. A specialist in heritage preservation, he has spent his career stewarding some of France’s most iconic historic sites, serving as Architect in Chief for the Domaine National de Chambord before being appointed to Notre-Dame in 2013. He was named a Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres in recognition of his contributions to French cultural heritage.

In leading this globally watched restoration, Villeneuve has positioned Notre-Dame not only as a religious and architectural icon, but as a case study in how heritage institutions navigate the demands of tradition, tourism, craftsmanship, and modern safety in the 21st century.

Moderated by Michel Picaud, Founder and President of the Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris. Since the catastrophic fire of April 15, 2019, the mission of The Friends of Notre-Dame has been to help fund the reconstruction and restoration of what has been called “the beating heart of Paris.

In partnership with the Alliance Française Miami Metro, the Alliance Française de Chicago, and the Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris

Upcoming Events

See All Upcoming Events

Performing Arts & Screenings

Theater Club in September

In-person, Indoor Event in French

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Come join us for the new Theater Club at the French Library, a place to read, watch, discuss and recite contemporary and classic French plays with fellow enthusiasts.

Social & Community

Le club des lecteurs : Anne Hébert

In-person, Indoor Event in French

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Join us at the French Library for a conversation about Les fous de Bassan by Anne Hébert. We invite you to read the book in its entirety and meet us on September 23rd, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Arts & Exhibitions

America at 250: A French Lens on Art at the MFA

An Exclusive Tour by Isabelle Slotine

Thursday, September 24, 2026

To mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, Isabelle Slotine invites you to explore the MFA's newly reimagined Art of the Americas galleries from a distinctive French perspective.

See All