Notre-Dame de Paris: The Augmented Exhibition at Immigration Museum

Just over five years ago, the world’s most famous cathedral, Notre-Dame de Paris, was hit by a devastating fire. A new exhibition at Immigration Museum uses augmented reality (AR) to enable visitors to travel back in time and see it pre-fire – and even way before, on a journey through its 850-year history. Visitors can also witness the recent painstaking restoration of the building.

Opening on December 6, Notre-Dame de Paris: The Augmented Exhibition takes visitors on a 3D, 360-degree journey through Notre-Dame to Melbourne. Visitors can explore the cathedral throughout different stages of its history – from its origins in the 12th century to King Henry IV’s wedding in 1572 and Napoleon Bonaparte’s 1804 coronation, all the way through to the present day.

Immigration Museum’s Long Room has been transformed for the atmospheric exhibition, including recreations of the cathedral’s iconic stained-glass windows, plus a soundscape featuring its organ and tolling bells.

Already seen by over 380,000 people across cities worldwide, including Paris, Washington, Montreal, Dubai and London, Notre-Dame de Paris provides visitors with a device called a Histopad: an AR touchscreen tablet designed to be accessible for all ages. The exhibition is designed and produced by Paris-based digital heritage specialists Histovery, in collaboration with Rebuilding Notre-Dame de Paris and with support from presenting partner L’Oreal Groupe.

Complement your exhibition experience this summer with a visit to the museum’s Le Cafe, serving pastries by Calle Bakery.

During the school holidays and on select days you can take part in special programs, including guided tours, expert talks, a French conversation club, and family-friendly craft activities.

Notre-Dame de Paris: The Augmented Exhibition runs until April 27. Entry is included with general Immigration Museum admission and is free for children and members.

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