JEMA 2025: the Conciergerie takes a behind-the-scenes look at the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris

Located in the heart of Paris, the Conciergerie is one of the capital's most important historic sites. This former residence of the kings of France, transformed into a prison during the French Revolution, has survived wars, fires and floods over the centuries... Despite these ups and downs, the historic monument is still standing, thanks to numerous restorations and the work of skilled craftsmen.

These artisans are showcased at the Journées Européennes des Métiers d'Art: an annual event that enables the public to discover art artisans and their skills. These highly skilled professionals work to preserve and keep alive France's tangible and intangible heritage.

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In the spring, many cultural and historical sites in Paris and theÎle-de-France region invite the curious to meet specialized craftsmen, to learn more about their work and its importance.

On April 2 and 5, 2025, the Conciergerie is taking part in this new edition of JEMA, with special events open to all. A program for all ages is sure to enthrall history and heritage enthusiasts: find out more about what awaits you at the Conciergerie! Advance booking is strongly recommended.

The JEMA 2025 program at the Conciergerie de Paris :

• Discover the professions of skater and 3D statuary molder
  With a view to the reopening of the Notre-Dame towers circuit in the summer of 2025, the Centre des Monuments Nationaux asked the RMN Grand Palais Moulding Workshop to reproduce the famous chimeras, destined to become mediation tools on the future circuit. Meet a master skater and a moulder-statuary specialized in 3D. They will present their trade and offer an exceptional demonstration in the Conciergerie kitchens.
  Dates: Wednesday April 2 at 2.30pm and 4pm and Saturday April 5 at 11.30am, 2.30pm and 4pm at the Conciergerie.
  Prices: adults €13 / free for under-26s
  By reservation only.
  
  
• Discovering the craft of stained-glass glassmaking
  Continuing the tradition of joint initiatives, the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN) and the Établissement public Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris (EpRNDP) are teaming up again this year to offer visitors the chance to discover the craft of master glassmaking through demonstrations and handling of glass samples. The meetings will be hosted by a stained glass artisan who has taken part in the restoration of stained glass windows at Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle, within the Conciergerie kitchens.
  Dates: Sunday April 6 at 2pm and 3:30pm at the Conciergerie.
  Prices: adults €13 / free for under-26s
  By reservation only.
  
  
• Shapes and colors workshop for 3-6 year-olds at the Sainte-Chapelle
  To complete this program, youngsters can marvel at the Sainte-Chapelle's stained-glass windows through games involving the association of shapes and colors, as well as simplified storytelling. An adapted visit punctuated by sensory mediation.
  From 3 years
  Dates: Saturday April 5 at 10:30 am at the Sainte-Chapelle
  Prices: adults €14 / children €8
  By reservation only

Continue your discovery tour with the other major events taking place at JEMA 2025 in Paris and the Île-de-France region.

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The European Days of Crafts and Artistic Trades is a special week dedicated to celebrating artisans across France, taking place from April 7 to 12, 2026. During this period, workshop doors swing open to offer a rare glimpse into their masterful skills. Now in its 20th edition, this event in Paris and Île-de-France invites you to explore a world of unique craftsmanship. Here's what awaits you. [Read more]