Melbourne is a long way from Paris, but locals can experience the wonders of the newly reopened Notre Dame Cathedral at a captivating exhibition at the Immigration Museum. Source: Melbourne Catholic.
Visitors navigate the 850-year history of Notre-Dame de Paris via “histopad”, a hand-held, augmented-reality touchscreen tablet that transports them to key moments in the cathedral’s past and present.
The Immigration Museum’s general manager, Rohini Kappadath, described it as more than just a display. It’s a story of resilience, faith and the enduring human spirit, she said.
The medieval cathedral was devastated in April 2019 when fire broke out in the roof space, possibly caused by a cigarette or an electrical short circuit.
In an era of uncertainty, Notre Dame’s renewal stands as a beacon of what is possible when humanity comes together with shared purpose.
The iconic lead-covered wooden spire was destroyed, as was most of the roof, but through a mighty firefighting effort, the cathedral’s towers, its famed rose windows and its collection of artworks and relics were saved – among those, the crown of thorns said to have been placed on Jesus during his crucifixion.
The exhibition’s emotional core lies in the narrative of Notre Dame’s restoration, a symbol of hope that has resonated throughout the world.
“It’s much more than just a project,” Ms Kappadath says. “It’s a reminder that even in loss, we can rebuild with faith and determination.
“In an era of uncertainty, the Notre Dame’s renewal stands as a beacon of what is possible when humanity comes together with shared purpose.”
The heroics of the hundreds of firefighters who saved the cathedral and the extraordinary efforts to rebuild the UNESCO world heritage landmark take up about a third of the exhibition.
The visitor has intimate access to the meticulous restoration, including the efforts taken to remove the stained-glass windows and protect the artefacts until they could be safely returned on Notre Dame’s reopening late last year.
The exhibition is open until the end of April. Details: Notre-Dame de Paris: The Augmented Exhibition.
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Catholicism’s French soul: exhibition brings wonders of Notre-Dame de Paris to Melbourne (Melbourne Catholic)
