The French government announced Wednesday that the reconstruction of the medieval cathedral Notre Dame de Paris will be overseen by the Walt Disney Company. The cathedral was heavily damaged Monday when a fire broke out, burning wooden supports, causing the roof to collapse on itself and destroying its iconic spire.
French government official Jules Grenouille made the announcement at a joint press conference with head of operations for Paris Disneyland, Amanda Foamer.
“We have had a wonderful relationship with the Disney Company over the years and we feel their expertise is a perfect fit for the project,” said Grenouille.
Said Foamer, “We’ve built like, what, seven or eight full size castles? How hard can half a cathedral be?”
The plan is to use authentic building materials and to follow blueprints from the original construction of the cathedral.
“But,” says Foamer, “we will still be adding that touch of Disney magic.” When asked for details, she said to expect a hidden Mickey or three in the cathedral’s intricate stone work. Another new addition will be the replacement of three gargoyles on each side of the cathedral with replicas of Hugo, Laverne and Victor, the three lovable gargoyles from Disney’s film “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”
“And that’s just Phase One,” says Foamer. Phase Two will see the installation in the currently burnt upper section of the cathedral of a dark ride based on the beloved animated film. “Guests will be able to experience the adventures of Quasi, Phoebus, Esmerelda, Clopin and their gargoyle friends in the actual location the film was set!”
Plans also include a Hunchback themed restaurant, nightly fireworks and a Disney Store.
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