reopen

A gravely weakened President Emmanuel Macron hopes to win a new lease of political life from Saturday's ceremonial reopening of Notre Dame.

PARIS—After a devastating fire 5 years ago, a restored Notre Dame de Paris is set to reopen to the public this weekend.

The reopening, taking place throughout the weekend, includes the ritualised opening of the cathedral's massive doors, the reawakening of its thunderous organ and the celebration of a first Mass.

It plans to reopen on Sunday if the weather permits.

Though initially the freeway was expected to be closed for weeks, shutting down a vital transportation route for daily commuters and regional commerce, it reopened much faster than anticipated.