A sudden fire engulfed Notre Dame, a famous iconic12th-century building. There was an extensive use of wood used to build the cathedral and the flames devastated the spire and roof. French fire services said it was possible to retrieve some of the priceless items inside. One of those treasures is the Holy Crown of Thorns, which Jesus is believed to have worn. This Catholic relic is put on display only occasionally.

A French firefighter official also added that it was possible to save the structure of the monument and two towers from total destruction.

The Parisian authorities have launched an investigation and ruled out arson and possible terror-related motives, believing it was an accident. Paris is a major travel destination and such, historical monuments are added attractions for tourists.

Sky News reports French President Emmanuel Macron wants to rebuild the Notre Dame and has vowed to launch an international fundraising campaign. That way, the whole world could join hands. He visited the scene in Paris, sympathized with Catholics “around the world,” and declared a national emergency.

History of the Notre Dame

It was in the reign of Louis VII that the first stone of the iconic Notre Dame was laid. That was in 1163 and work continued for much of the next century. During the 17th and 18th centuries, there was major restoration work carried out with the addition of some features. The monument is 800 years old and tourists come every year in millions to take in glimpses of ancient history.

The building became famous because of Victor Hugo's classic novel the "Hunchback of Notre Dame." At the time of the fire incident, it was undergoing renovation work and some of the bronze statues were moved out recently to facilitate the work. That was fortunate.

Sky News adds that leaders all over the world have expressed their sorrow for the tragedy that has robbed the world of a monument like the Notre Dame cathedral.

Among them were Prime Minister Theresa May, UNESCO's director Audrey Azoulay, and former US president Barack Obama. It is a loss for humanity because it will not be possible to replace many of the items that are lost.

Rebuilding the cathedral

According to New Zealand Herald, the destruction of Notre Dame, the 12th-century cathedral, has shocked the world. Politicians and luxury goods billionaires have taken a pledge to donate to a fund for rebuilding the iconic structure.

It is estimated that more than 13,000 trees were felled and used to create the internal latticework, while strong oak beams supported the roof made of heavy lead tiles.

As it went up in flames, people gathered on the banks of the Seine and saw the terrible sight of the destruction of their much-loved cathedral. It is home to invaluable works of art and is one of the world's most famous Travel destinations. The exact cause of the blaze is not yet known but the Paris fire brigade feels it could have links to the renovation project underway.
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