Mylène Pardoen, listening to Notre-Dame de Paris

On the occasion of the reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris, let’s take a look at the unique work of Mylène Pardoen, who connects past and present through sound.

Archiving the Sounds of the Restoration Site

Since the tragic fire of 2019, the reconstruction of Notre-Dame has mobilized hundreds of artisans, engineers, and historians. Among them, Mylène Pardoen, a soundscape archaeologist, undertook a unique mission: to capture the sounds of the construction site. From the hammering of tools to conversations between workers, and even the modern machines used in the restoration, every sound was recorded to create a living and immersive archive of this historic period.

These recordings are invaluable, not only for preserving the memory of the restoration but also as a testament to the techniques and expertise employed to restore the cathedral.

Recreating the Soundscape of 1170

Beyond archiving contemporary sounds, Mylène Pardoen also delved into Notre-Dame’s past. By combining historical research, acoustic simulations, and studies of the tools and materials used in the 12th century, she successfully recreated the cathedral's soundscape during its construction.

Imagine 1170: the clinking of stone chisels striking limestone blocks, saws working on wooden scaffolding, Gregorian chants echoing beneath partially built vaults, and the bustling streets of medieval Paris surrounding the construction site. This re-creation is a true sonic immersion into the past, helping us understand how the cathedral integrated into its historical environment.

An Invaluable Contribution to Heritage

Mylène Pardoen’s work is a rare and precious testimony that enriches our understanding of cultural heritage from a new perspective: sound. Her archives not only document the restoration process but also offer a unique experience to researchers, visitors, and history enthusiasts.

This project opens fascinating possibilities for other historic monuments: what if, tomorrow, we could also hear the sounds of the pyramids being built or the daily life at the Palace of Versailles?