Companions of Duty: at Notre-Dame, mission accomplished!

100 meters from Notre-Dame, which they helped restore, is the house of the Compagnons du Devoir, an institution whose history dates back to the builders of cathedrals. Pride of the Marais – and French pride! – these elite craftsmen have spanned the centuries by perpetuating their unique know-how throughout France. In Paris, after the 2019 fire at Notre Dame, they showed how much their knowledge remains necessary, including in the era of AI and social networks.

On this pharaonic and prodigious construction site of the resurrection of Notre-Dame, the Compagnons du Devoir brought their immense ancestral know-how to rebuild the framework and restore the cathedral, a masterpiece of world heritage.

Thus, the Compagnons du Devoir carpenters played a crucial role in the reconstruction of the wooden frame, nicknamed the "forest" because of its complexity. Stonemasons and roofers were also particularly called upon to consolidate or rebuild the main structure of the cathedral.

This spotlight made us want to take a tour of their premises located in the Marais. Here, the Compagnons du Devoir have been present for several centuries, and their methods have remained almost unchanged for a very long time.

Tradition has its good points. This is demonstrated by their unique training model: from the age of 15, apprentices embark on a course combining technical initiation, human education and historical and cultural teaching. The journey of the companions is based on three pillars – apprenticeship, community life and the famous Tour de France – which allows them to train versatile and highly qualified workers in around thirty trades: mason, carpenter, roofer, stonemason, locksmith, cabinetmaker, etc.

To achieve the coveted title of "companion", aspirants must demonstrate unwavering commitment. After a period of affiliation, they begin their Tour de France, an initiatory journey that can last several years. The culmination of this journey is the creation of a masterpiece, a "reception" piece of "end of study" testifying to their technical mastery and creativity.

Just behind the Paris City Hall, on Place Saint-Gervais, the Maison des Compagnons and the nearby Compagnonnage bookstore are located in the heart of medieval Paris. This is where we are welcomed by Lucas Raguin, who holds the position of provost of the Parisian house of the Compagnons du Devoir.

So here he is at the head of this centuries-old institution, a true brotherhood that has 100 companions. A plumber by training, he began his journey at the age of 15, following in the footsteps of his older brother. His Tour de France took him from Reims to Reunion Island via La Rochelle and Saint-Étienne.

"We all eat together in our large dining room, spend time in the relaxation room, where a sofa made by a companion sits. It's a bit like Hogwarts here!" says Lucas Raguin in a nod to Harry Potter. "In France, we have incredible artisanal know-how," he enthuses. "But we set deadlines that are too short and prices that are too low for the quality of the work provided. We lack the means," he regrets.

While waiting for things to change, the Tour de France des Compagnons continues. From one project to the next, from one country to another, the companions continue to dazzle with their art of detail and their taste for precise work. Open days are organized regularly. Push open the door of the Compagnons du devoir. After their media coverage related to the renovation of Notre-Dame, they are only too happy to tell you more.