French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing ahead with the idea of installing modern stained glass windows in Notre Dame Cathedral, despite the unanimous opposition of the French National Commission for Cultural Heritage and Architecture. Experts say that replacing the undamaged original stained glass windows is in violation of the Venice Charter for the Preservation of Historic Monuments, adopted by France in 1965, “MIR 24” reports with reference to Cnews.

Despite a petition signed by nearly 160 thousand people against replacing the stained glass windows and criticism of the unnecessary expense, Macron is standing by his decision. He believes that the modern era should be reflected in the cathedral's appearance, along with other historical periods.

The Ministry of Culture has already selected eight artists to take part in a competition to create designs for six new stained glass windows for the side chapels. The winner will be chosen by the country's president and the

Archbishop of Paris, and will be announced at the cathedral's opening ceremony on December 8.

Let us remind that a major fire in Notre Dame occurred on April 15, 2019, destroying the spire and the unique wooden roof frame. Macron has set a goal to restore the cathedral in five years. The opening for visitors is scheduled for December 8, 2024, and the full completion of the restoration is expected in 2029-2030.