Tech giant partners with French government to preserve cathedral heritage and offer virtual access

Paris, July 21, 2025 – Microsoft has partnered with the French government to create a high-fidelity digital replica of Notre-Dame Cathedral.The initiative was announced just days after the cathedral reopened in December 2024. It aims to digitally preserve Notre-Dame’s architectural legacy and provide a virtual visitor experience for millions worldwide.

The collaboration aims to create a “digital twin” of the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral using cutting-edge 3D modeling, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. This digital replica will capture fine architectural details, including areas not visible to physical visitors. It will serve as both a preservation tool and an educational resource for global audiences.

French officials noted that this project is part of a broader initiative to digitize national heritage sites. The Culture Ministry confirmed that Microsoft will work closely with Paris-based startup Iconem, known for digitally documenting UNESCO heritage sites globally. Their past collaborations include digital twins of St. Peter’s Basilica and Mont-Saint-Michel.

“The Notre-Dame digital replica will not only preserve one of France’s greatest cultural landmarks but also expand global access to it,” said Jean-François Hébert, head of the French Heritage Digitization Council. “With Microsoft’s support, we’re transforming the way people engage with history and architecture.”

The cathedral itself reopened in December 2024, following a five-year-long restoration prompted by the devastating 2019 fire. The blaze destroyed the roof and spire, prompting global donations and state-backed restoration efforts. President Emmanuel Macron declared the reopening a “triumph of French craftsmanship and unity.” Now, with a digital twin, France hopes to protect and promote Notre-Dame for future generations.

Though the project’s primary goal is preservation and education, it may also impact tourism and the economy.Officials believe the virtual replica of Notre-Dame will strongly appeal to schools, museums, and global travel platforms—particularly for audiences who may never visit Paris. While the main purpose is preservation and education, they also see potential tourism and economic benefits. The virtual tour experience is expected to become a major attraction for international institutions and cultural programs.

Microsoft President Brad Smith stated: “This project reflects our commitment to preserving global culture with responsible AI and cloud innovation. Notre-Dame is more than a building—it’s a global icon. We’re proud to help protect its legacy.” Business Standard reports that Smith emphasized Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to cultural heritage across continents.

The digital replica of Notre-Dame Cathedral is scheduled for public rollout by mid‑2026.Initial previews of the replica will appear in French museums and schools later this year. Full integration into the Culture Ministry’s digital archives is planned by 2027.