Emotions around the world are running high following the fire that destroyed part of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris. Testament to the universal attachment to this emblematic Parisian monument and masterpiece of Gothic architecture, a wave of solidarity has risen to save and rebuild it.
A few hours after the first images of Our Lady engulfed in flames were published, messages of solidarity and compassion poured in from all over the world. With songs, prayers and messages of comfort: everywhere, emotions are running high.
There is no questioning the deep attachment felt by Parisians and lovers of the city for the Cathedral de Notre-Dame. Although the roof and spire of the monument were destroyed by the fire, the structure of the building was saved thanks to the intervention of the city’s firefighters, already allowing officials to consider the reconstruction of the Gothic work listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Under the leadership of French President Emmanuel Macron, a national appeal was launched to rebuild Notre-Dame, an emblematic building of Paris’ religious, historical and artistic heritage. The site of the Centre des Monuments Nationaux has already set up a site to collect donations to rebuild Europe's most visited monument.
Traditional savoir-faire with innovative technology
In fact, donations are already mounting to restore the building to its former glory. Major French groups have already pledged € 500 million for reconstruction, in addition to many donations from companies and individuals in France and abroad.
France is preparing to mobilise its best craftsmen – many of whom have ancestral expertise – to rebuild Notre-Dame, which inspired Victor Hugo’s eponymous novel.
Some architects are already seizing the opportunity, as they did for restorations undertaken in previous centuries, to conceive a reconstruction faithful to the original but using the latest technology.
Further information: - The Paris Tourist Office on the situation at Notre Dame de Paris - Paris Info - Notre Dame de Paris
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The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.
