The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris (Notre-Dame) is a renowned part of historical and cultural heritage of France, as well as a treasure of human civilisation. After five years of restoration and reconstruction, Notre-Dame will be reopened in December 2024. Its iconic Gothic spires, exquisite bas-reliefs, and magnificent rose windows will once again be presented to the public.

The Cultural Exchange Oasis (CXO) of City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), in collaboration with Alliance Fran?aise de Hong Kong, unveiled (Re)births – a spectacular multimedia exhibition, presenting the construction and successive restorations of one of the most iconic symbols of France throughout the centuries. The aim of the exhibition is to encourage the public to protect and cherish valuable heritage.

The history of Notre-Dame will be introduced through several innovative mediums, including a 3D model, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), videos, photographs, computer-generated images and unique architectural exploratory works, designed by CityUHK students from the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering. The exhibition showcases the architectural style of Notre-Dame, enabling visitors to explore it from multiple perspectives and gain an understanding of the challenges faced during the reconstruction journey.

Officiating guests at the Opening Ceremony included Professor Freddy Boey, President of CityUHK, Mrs Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr Jean-Sébastien Attié, Executive Director of Alliance Fran?aise de Hong Kong, and Professor Li Wenjung, Vice-President (Talent and International Strategy) of CityUHK.

President Boey pointed out that Notre-Dame is a symbol of Paris, France, and holds extraordinary significance in history, architecture and the cultural arts. “Universities shoulder the responsibility of inheriting historical culture. CityUHK is very honoured to co-host this exhibition with Alliance Fran?aise de Hong Kong to celebrate the rebirth of Notre-Dame. The exhibition underscores the need for all stakeholders to work together to restore and protect cultural relics. We hope that the visitors will understand the importance of cultural heritage conservation for sustainable development through the reconstruction of Notre-Dame.” he said.

Mrs Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, expressed her gratitude to CityUHK for supporting the French May Arts Festival. She believes the exhibition will further strengthen the connections between France and Hong Kong, promoting cultural exchange and art appreciation. “May this exhibition serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and the resilience of cultural heritage.” she said.

CityUHK staff, students, alumni and the public are welcome to visit the exhibition, which is being held in the Wofoo Foundation Gallery in the Run Run Shaw Library for two months. The opening hours are from 10 am to 10 pm. Prior registration is available online for external visitors.

Media enquiries: Poying Hung, Communications and Institutional Research Office, CityUHK (Tel: 3442 4218 / 6034 3830)