Notre Dame's Viollet-le-Duc stained-glass windows removed amid expert opposition

Notre Dame Cathedral is undergoing a significant transformation as work begins on the removal of its historic stained-glass windows. On June 22, the grisailles designed by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century started being taken down from the south aisle chapels of the nave. These windows, which have adorned the cathedral since 1865 and survived the 2019 fire, will be replaced by contemporary stained-glass artworks.

The new windows, created by artist Claire Tabouret in collaboration with the workshops of master glassmaker Simon Marq in Reims, will illustrate the theme of Pentecost. The designs for these 21st-century creations were recently exhibited at the Grand Palais. Installation is planned between mid-October and the end of November 2026.

This project, proceeding despite opposition from numerous experts, marks a new chapter for the iconic cathedral as it integrates modern artistic visions while preserving its historical significance.