French President Emmanuel Macron inspected the newly restored interior of Notre Dame Cathedral on Friday, calling the achievement a "remedy to a national wound" caused by the devastating 2019 fire.

The inspection, broadcast live on television, gave the public its first glimpse of the cathedral’s renewed splendour, just days ahead of its official reopening on 7 December.

"You have achieved what was thought impossible," Macron told the gathered workers and officials. The president toured key areas, including the nave, choir, and chapel, expressing admiration for the pale stones and the craftsmanship behind the restoration. "It is much more welcoming," he remarked.

The restoration of the 850-year-old Gothic landmark has been a monumental effort, overcoming significant challenges to meet the ambitious timeline. Macron acknowledged early doubts about the feasibility of the project, saying, "We were told many times it wouldn't be possible. But in the end, you did it."

Notre Dame will reopen to worshippers and visitors on the weekend of 7–8 December. The reopening is expected to draw world leaders, although the guest list remains undisclosed.

Macron highlighted the reopening as a moment of pride for the French nation, calling it a "shock of hope" and a testament to national unity and determination. "The blaze at Notre Dame was a national wound, and you have been its remedy through will, work, and commitment," he said.

Accompanied by officials including Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich and the city’s mayor, Macron emphasised that the restoration symbolises the enduring spirit of fraternity. "This is an immense source of pride for the entire nation," he concluded.