
<a href="https://reason.com/2025/07/27/paris/" target="_blank">View original image source</a>.
Notre-Dame Cathedral is basking in its newfound glory, thanks to an impressive fundraising effort that’s shocked and awed. After nearly being taken out by a catastrophic fire in 2019, this iconic site has attracted nearly $900 million in donations. From big names like Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, to everyday folks worldwide, generosity knows no bounds. It’s as if the entire planet threw a fundraising party, and who doesn’t love a party?
What’s even more fascinating is how these donations weren’t just cash—many of the 340,000 individual donors had true emotional ties to the place. It’s not just a building; it’s a cherished piece of history for millions. Remember the last time you attended a fundraiser? Now imagine if everyone at that event was there because they love an ancient masterpiece. With the cathedral’s interior already looking phenomenal, the outside’s still getting some TLC, and why not? It deserves to shine brighter than your ex’s excuses.
Here’s the kicker: the original construction started way back in 1163—talk about dedication! This restoration is a testament to the incredible bond people have with not just Notre-Dame, but with their history too. It begs the question, what historic site would you support if given the chance? Would you contribute to restore it, or maybe just throw cash at it like it’s a hot new trend?
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