HOUSTON — The Museum of Fine Arts Houston will present a new immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral after it was severely damaged by fire in 2019.
The exhibition, located in the museum's Cullinan Hall, runs from Nov. 23, 2024, to Jan. 5, 2025, and uses cutting-edge technology to bring the cathedral’s architecture and its five-year restoration to life.
The presentation is based on 3D laser scans of the cathedral created by the late art historian Andrew Tallon in 2010. These scans played a key role in guiding the cathedral’s reconstruction.
“This is more than just an exhibition — it’s a testament to the resilience and teamwork that brought this beloved monument back to life,” said Director of MFAH, Gary Tinterow, in a news release.
Visitors will see large projections on three walls. The 14-minute video takes viewers through the cathedral, from the outside view from day to night, to the candlelit interior and then to the aftermath of the fire.
The final part shows the newly reconstructed spire. The spire includes a new golden rooster on top, which symbolizes rebirth and hope.
The rooster was originally thought to have been lost in the fire, but it was later found intact. It has since been restored and displayed in Paris.
The immersive experience also highlights the work of nearly 2,000 craftsmen and artisans who helped restore the cathedral.