averilburystedmunds: Une Petite Escapade a Paris

Notre Dame spire on fire
April 2019

Montmartre, looking towards Sacre-Coeur,
visited by David.

I have just returned from a very short trip to Paris treated by my son, David, as a Mothering Sunday present! I had longed to visit Notre Dame in this first year of its re-opening after the disastrous fire in April 2019, so our two nights there gave us plenty of opportunities not only to check out Our Lady of Paris, [‘Notre Dame] but also to indulge in our much-loved strolling along the boulevards in true flaneur fashion. Nothing feels quite so francais as wandering along les avenues observing passing life, before choosing a table at one of the many outdoor cafes’ seating areas for a glass or an ice. It is always cheaper to drink at the bar inside but frankly, to be seated outside to view and be viewed is worth that little extra!

David had done well to find a super place in Montmartre, light, lots of glass and space, a lift [so necessary at nearly 91 for a room on the fourth floor!] and in an area awash with many bars, cafés, bistros and brasseries. The Metro [used only twice] was conveniently close as were bus stops though it must be said that we did lots of walking which is a bit of an effort with flagging energy and two walking poles. Determination and plenty of time are the essentials in being a sedate, but successful, nonagenarian flaneur! Plus, of course, a patient and kind companion/guide/problem-solver!

We were lucky in almost effortlessly, finding perfect places to eat; the definition of ‘perfect’ being conveniently close when hunger is noticed; stylish interior if possible; chic outside area with one or two available tables; friendly waiters; easily understood menu with desirable dishes offered at reasonable prices. And of course, ultimately, excellent food and service.

Walking between sights-to-see was fine but when the distance was too far for frailty, we used available transport nearby, my total favourite being a sort of three-wheeled cycling taxi under the good-humoured guidance of Adam. He took us on a half hour tourist trail, passing many of the well-known places of interest which he accompanied by an explanatory tourist guide chat, much enjoyed by his two

Velo-taxi, Paris, on the tourist trail in May 2025

passengers. I particularly liked him always calling me Maman and I so enjoyed the ride with a slightly nervous eye-closing at certain intersections, but imperious as we passed slower travellers and presidential as we swept into empty stretches of street and forged magnificently ahead. I secretly longed for an admiring audience for our slightly rocky ride, but one can’t have it all!!

Much of the spire was made of wood
covered by layers of lead.

Hommage sauveteurs
Plaque honouring the vast subscriptions which
poured in immediately after the fire.
Displayed outside the Hotel de Ville.

The stated objective of our entire trip being to appreciate the restored Notre Dame, we did exactly that and it WAS magnificent. Impossible to believe that the inferno had destroyed so much of the mediaeval framework and the roof but most of the famed French Gothic architecture stands where it has stood since the twelfth century with its breathtaking stained-glass windows, elaborate stone carvings and soaring spires, evidence, as its name suggests, of its sacred place at the heart of France, integral to its history and enduring Catholic faith. Indeed, its magnificence and enduring presence inspire reverence and awe in all those who behold it. The catastrophic fire which engulfed Notre Dame in April 2019 causing extensive damage, left the world in shock and mourning and inspired an outpouring of support and contributions for the cathedral's restoration. Within twenty-four hours, £520 million had been promised by huge

Notre Dame in all its restored glory

international corporations and companies followed by countless millions of smaller amounts regardless of faith, nationality or creed. The U.S. was the second largest contributor at $62 million. Macron’s short but heartfelt speech touched the world, and the major restoration project was launched with the hopeful, possibly unachievable, date for reopening set at December 8, 2024, over five years ahead..