New exhibit at Houston library features schematics, tools used in Notre Dame's restoration

In partnership with Archaeology Now, the Houston Public Library is able to present an exhibit featuring tools used by the artisans who recrafted the Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral in Paris. The exhibit, located at the Julia Ideson Building downtown, is open until Aug. 2. (Photo courtesy of the Houston Public Library)HOUSTON — The world looked on in horror as the iconic spire of Notre Dame de Paris collapsed into the engulfing flames that raged below. Since that day in 2019, the French government, with significant aid from around the world, has meticulously rebuilt Notre Dame, which was reconsecrated by the Archbishop of Paris in December 2024.
Now, the skill and care that went into rebuilding the famed cathedral are on display at the Houston Public Library’s (HPL) historic Julia Ideson Building in downtown Houston. 
In partnership with Archaeology Now, which has sponsored a year of French-related activities in Houston celebrating the reopening of Notre Dame, HPL presents a special exhibit, titled “The Great Restoration Adventure: Celebrating the Craftsmen of Notre Dame de Paris,” which highlights tools used by the artisans who recrafted the cathedral; schematics and photos used to carefully restore the cathedral to its prior glory; and video to show the work of the craftsmen in real-time. 

“It was really quite important to us to highlight those who made this restoration possible,” said Becky Lao, executive director of Archaeology Now. “Their work speaks for itself. Notre Dame de Paris stands as a testament not only to their skill and brilliance in exercising their craft but as a global symbol of cherishing our past for future generations.”  

Lao, who has spearheaded the year of celebrations,  said, “It means so much to be able to do this with Houston Public Library as we showcase and convene the Houston community to learn about this work.” 

Christina Grubitz, HPL curator of exhibitions, said this showcase was particularly unique.
“We have many exhibits come through the Houston Public Library and we always strive for quality,” said Grubitz. “This exhibition is so international in character and has such a global meaning. We hope that the Houston community will take advantage of this rare opportunity to learn not just about one of the iconic structures of Western civilization, but the traditional crafts and skills and devotion necessary to make such an icon possible.” 

Entrance and admission to the exhibit, which is found on the second floor exhibition hall, is free and open to the public during the regular hours of the Julia Ideson Building, located at 550 McKinney St. in Houston. More details are available online at or by calling 832-393-1662.