Economist Podcasts Ashes to Masses: Notre Dame’s stunning return
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Dec 6, 2024 
Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, discusses the remarkable restoration of Notre Dame after the devastating fire of 2019, highlighting the skilled craftsmanship involved. She reflects on the cathedral's revival as a symbol of resilience amidst political turmoil in France. Additionally, she addresses the election landscape in Ghana, where disillusioned voters face economic challenges and concerns about democracy. The conversation also pays tribute to John Kinsel, a Navajo code talker, emphasizing his cultural legacy and connection to his heritage.
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Witnessing Notre Dame
- Sophie Petter witnessed the Notre Dame fire while working in Paris.
- Five years later, she revisited the cathedral, astonished by the restoration's luminosity and color.
Faithful Restoration
- The Notre Dame restoration prioritized fidelity to original designs and medieval techniques.
- Artisans recreated tools and used original pigments, showcasing French craftsmanship.
Macron's Involvement
- President Macron took a personal interest in the Notre Dame project, making seven visits.
- He thanked the 2,000 workers, calling it "the most beautiful project in France this century."