Valrhona Intricately Recreates Notre Dame In Chocolate For Cathedral’s Reopening
Image via Valrhona
Valrhona has transformed the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris into a choc-ful of sweet wonder! To mark the much-anticipated reopening of the historical Parisian landmark on December 7 and 8, the French chocolatier unveiled a stunning chocolate replica of the cathedral. Intricate, ambitious, and entirely edible, this creation is as much an artistic marvel as it is a culinary feat.
Measuring 2.2 meters (7.2 feet) long, 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) wide, and 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) high, the sculpture was brought to life under the guidance of Baptiste Moreau, a lecturer at L’École Valrhona, and his team. Over the course of approximately 3,000 hours, the crew lovingly recreated Notre Dame’s Gothic details, from the famous gargoyles to the iconic rose window. This masterpiece was crafted with the help of architect Philippe Velu of Tandem and Hydroprocess, a company specializing in water-jet cutting, to ensure precise rendering of the cathedral’s most intricate features.
Designed in three sections for easier transportation, the artwork will embark on a global tour following its Paris exhibition, offering audiences worldwide a chance to admire this unique tribute to one of France’s most treasured landmarks. This initiative was made possible in conjunction with Extime Duty Free Paris and Lagardère Travel Retail.
Image via Valrhona
Valrhona is no stranger to large-scale edible art. In 2023, the confectioner dreamed up a delectable replica of Sainte-Chapelle’s spire for an exhibition at the Conciergerie in Paris.
As for the latest chocolate monument, it debuted at Terminal 1 of Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport on December 8, where it will remain on display until January 15, 2025.
[via My Modern Met, Le Bonbon, Creapills, images via Valrhona]
