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Notre Dame Cathedral's forecourt opened up to the public for the first time since the devastating fire of April 15 last year, Euronews reported. 

The body overseeing the Gothic structure's restoration issued a statement on Sunday saying that the reopening was finally made possible after several deep cleaning operations took place to remove toxic lead dust from the large forecourt.

Dozens of tons of lead went up in flames during the fire, sending tons of poisonous dust onto the surrounding ground.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo joined senior clergy on a visit to the area on Sunday afternoon, saying it was an "immense pleasure" to catch up with them "for the reopening of the Notre Dame forecourt", which she described as a form of "renaissance".

The cathedral is still closed and will remain closed until 2024, at least.