The Crown of Thorns, a revered Christian relic associated with Jesus Christ, has been preserved and is being returned to Notre Dame cathedral nearly five years after it was saved from a devastating fire in 2019. The relic will be displayed for public veneration every Friday starting January 10, 2025.
The Crown of Thorns, an ancient relic revered by many Christians as a symbol associated with Jesus Christ, has been preserved since the devastating fire that consumed much of Notre Dame cathedral on April 15, 2019. The quick actions of firefighters ensured its survival alongside other relics.
The relic was first mentioned by Jerusalem pilgrims in the 5th century. It was later transferred to Constantinople in the 10th century and acquired by King Louis IX of France in 1239. He brought it to Paris, initially housing it at Notre Dame before commissioning the Sainte-Chapelle for its safekeeping.
The Crown of Thorns is being returned to Notre Dame cathedral nearly five years after it was saved from the fire. The ceremony will be presided over by the Archbishop of Paris and attended by knights and dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, marking a significant moment in the cathedral’s restoration journey.
Starting January 10, 2025, the Crown of Thorns will be displayed for public veneration every Friday until April 18. This schedule culminates in Good Friday, after which it will be shown on the first Friday of each month.
