‘Crown of Thorns’ Makes a Triumphant Return to Notre Dame Cathedral for Public Viewing

PARIS—The revered relic known as Jesus Christ’s “Crown of Thorns” has been returned to Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, five years after being saved from the flames of the devastating 2019 fire.

The crown, a circular band of branches encased in a gilded golden tube, made its way back to the cathedral in a ceremony led by the archbishop of Paris and attended by members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, marking an important milestone in the cathedral’s restoration process.

This ancient relic has a storied history, first mentioned by Jerusalem pilgrims in the 5th century before being brought to Constantinople in the 10th century. King Louis IX of France acquired it in 1239 and placed it in Notre Dame before constructing the Sainte-Chapelle for its safekeeping. It eventually returned to Notre Dame.

During the 2019 fire, the Crown of Thorns was protected in a sealed case alongside other relics thanks to the quick actions of firefighters, ensuring their survival.

Starting on Jan. 10, the Crown of Thorns will be available for public viewing every Friday until April 18, culminating on Good Friday. After that, it will be exhibited on the first Friday of each month.