Notre Dame's Medieval Roof Structure Recreated With 1,200 Oak Trees

The cross and the rooster atop the Notre Dame de Paris cathedral spire, Thursday, March 14, 2024 in Paris. Scaffolding has enshrouded Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris since a 2019 fire destroyed its spir

During the recent visit to Notre Dame, a significant moment was the focus on the medieval roof structure above the choir, described by the Elysee as 'one of the most symbolic' elements of the cathedral's Gothic architecture.

Before the devastating fire, the roof, known as 'the forest,' was constructed using oak trees sourced from various regions of France, contributing to its nickname due to the density of the vaults. Tragically, this iconic roof was at the heart of the blaze and eventually collapsed.

The roof, known as 'the forest,' was made of oak trees from different regions of France.

The medieval roof above the choir was a significant element of Notre Dame's Gothic architecture.

The roof collapsed in the fire, but efforts are being made to restore it authentically.

To ensure the authenticity and structural integrity of the cathedral's restoration, carpenters overseeing the reconstruction of the choir and nave's framework embarked on a mission to acquire 1,200 oak trees from different forests across the country for the new roof structure over the nave and choir.

Upon the arrival of the oak trees, the carpenters meticulously followed the traditional 13th-century techniques to recreate the roof structure. The wood was handled in the same manner as it was during the Middle Ages, being worked while still green and shaped by hand-axe before being left to dry.