La Fabrique de la flèche: visit the reconstruction site of the Basilica of Saint-Denis

Following in the footsteps of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, which has been restored to its former splendor, the Basilique Saint-Denis, a royal necropolis, is due to be restored in the next few years to its former structure, where a superb 90m-high spire could be seen on the north tower, dating from 1180-1200, right up to the 19th century! In 1846, the decision was taken to dismantle the spire, causing this landmark of French history to lose its symmetry and typical Gothic silhouette.

Fortunately, when architect François Debret first dismantled the spire in 1837 for restoration after it had been struck by lightning, he had carried out very precise surveys and sketches. Unfortunately, the spire threatened the stability of the building, despite its status as a symbol of the city. In 1992, the first plans for reconstruction were made, before the project was approved in 2018.

In 2021, it was decided to step up the pace of work to support Saint-Denis's bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2028. Consolidation work was launched in 2023, along with preventive excavations that unearthed more than 200 Carolingian and Merovingian tombs.

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Long-awaited, the spire is due to make its final return in 2029, with the installation of the cockerel at the top during the Journées du Patrimoine. But in the meantime, restoration of the tower's base has already begun in 2024, and on March 14, 2025, the foundation stone will be officially laid. To enable as many people as possible to follow the progress of this extraordinary work, which requires exceptional expertise, the association Suivez la flèche (Follow the Spire) will be welcoming you to the heart of the site from January onwards.

The Fabrique de la flèche will give young and old alike the chance to discover what goes on behind the scenes of this event, through cultural activities and fun workshops, focusing on stonework, the trades involved and the history of the monument. On the association's website, you can take advantage of a 3D experience to see what it's going to look like, and also sponsor a stone to help with the reconstruction and get involved!