Notre-Dame’s History Brought to Life with Augmented Reality in NYC

Starting November 15, 2024, New Yorkers can experience Notre-Dame de Paris, The Augmented Exhibition at the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine. Running until January 31, 2025, this exhibit celebrates 850 years of the iconic cathedral’s history using augmented reality technology from Histovery, a French educational tech company. Supported by L’Oréal Groupe, this immersive journey aligns with the grand reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris in December, following five years of restoration after the devastating 2019 fire.

Visitors can use a HistoPad, a touchscreen tablet, to view illuminated photo panels, 3-D models, and full-sized sculptures of Notre-Dame, exploring key events like the Gothic Choir’s construction, the arrival of the Holy Crown, and Napoleon’s coronation. The exhibition also showcases the ongoing restoration, offering a unique view of the experts reviving the historic cathedral.

St. John the Divine’s Dean, The Very Reverend Patrick Malloy, expressed pride in hosting the exhibit, drawing connections between the resilience of New York’s own Gothic cathedral and Notre-Dame. With contributions from the public Institution overseeing Notre-Dame’s restoration, this interactive exhibition aims to inspire history enthusiasts, tech fans, and culture lovers alike.

Exhibit hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 am–5 pm, and Sunday, 12 pm–4 pm, in St. James Chapel. A press preview will take place on November 14 at 11 am, featuring an exhibition overview by Dean Malloy and Histovery representatives.