The French people and history/art fans across the world were left stunned when the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral caught on fire and burned uncontrollably.
The structure was built in the 12th century and is home to some of the most expensive pieces of art in the world.
At the moment it is not clear if the authorities were able to salvage any of those art before they were destroyed by the fire.
The fire began in the attic of Notre Dame where it quickly spread to the roof.
The sad irony is that Notre Dame was currently going through a 6 million euro renovation project.
The current theories as to the start of the fire is connected to this renovation work.
It seems the very work that was meant to make the Cathedral better, ended up destroying.
The French President Macron said it was like a piece of France burning.
It’s easy to see why he would say that as the Notre Dame is one of the iconic French structures.
It is one of the must visit tourist attractions alongside places like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower.
The fire was first discovered around 5.50 GMT time and before firefighters could respond the flames grew rapidly.
They quickly consumed the roof and the famous spiral on top of the building was seen crumbling to pieces to everyone’s horror.
The loss of the building itself is arguably not even the worst tragedy. The works of art that are inside it are so expensive it is difficult to place a value on them.
The building can and will be rebuilt but those art works are gone forever.
We can only hope that some of them were recovered and will be once again displayed for future generations to see and enjoy.
