Macron defies experts, backs modern stained glass for Notre-Dame

French President Emmanuel Macron has demanded the replacement of some of the historical stained glass windows in Notre-Dame Cathedral with modern ones, despite recommendations from experts, according to Report, which cites the Cnews television channel.

The original stained glass windows remained unscathed during the devastating fire in 2019, and Macron's proposal has drawn criticism in France. In July 2024, the French National Commission for Cultural Heritage and Architecture unanimously prohibited the installation of modern stained glass, citing the requirements of the International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Historical Monuments.

However, the Ministry of Culture stated that the president continued to support the project to replace the stained glass, despite the opposition. Eight contemporary artists will propose their designs for the replacement.

In December 2023, a competition was announced to create six modern stained glass windows for the side chapels of the cathedral, aiming to reflect not only past eras but also modernity in Notre-Dame's decor.

This is not the first time Macron's vision for Notre-Dame has faced resistance. In 2020, commission members protested against replacing the collapsed spire of the cathedral with a modern one, as proposed by Macron.

The iconic Notre-Dame de Paris caught fire on April 15, 2019, resulting in the complete destruction and collapse of the roof, along with the famous spire and clock. The reconstruction of the cathedral began in 2022 after two years of preparatory work.