After Notre-Dame de Paris, 3 emblematic arrow sites
1. The arrow of the Saint-Denis basilica
On March 14, 2025, the foundation stone of the northern arrow of the Saint-Denis basilica was laid, launching a major heritage site. Deprived of its arrow since 1846, dismantled by the architect François Debret, the basilica finally finds this gothic symbol disappeared.
Carried by the association Follow the arrowthe project is based on specific archives and original stones. He mobilizes more than 130 craftsmen – stone tailors, blacksmiths, carpenters – to assemble the 15,228 blocks required.
From September 2025, the site will open to the public: visitors will be able to observe craftsmen at work in their lodges and discover medieval construction techniques.
Margaux Assier de Pompignan
2. The arrow of Notre-Dame de Rouen
On July 11, 2024, a fire almost destroyed the arrow of Notre-Dame de Rouen (Seine-Maritime). Restored since 2016, this daring cast iron structure which culminates at 151 m-always making this highest cathedral in France-should be rid of its scaffolding at the end of 2027. At the Museum of Fine Arts, an exhibition traces the history of this “modern” addition and its reception.
“” Rebuild … the arrow »». Until June 2, 2025, Rens.: 02 35 71 28 40.
Sophie LAURANT
3. The arrow of the Saint-Bénigne Cathedral of Dijon
Built in 1895, the arrow of the Saint-Bénigne cathedral of Dijon (Côte-d’Or) is the fourth built successively on this rather modest Gothic monument. A design defect explains that it is leaning today by 70 cm and sags on its supports. It is a question of dismantling it entirely and changing about a quarter of the 800 pieces of wood that make it up. The site, whose cost (22 million euros) will be assumed by the State, owner, will begin in early 2026.
SL
