By Nick Baum
TUESDAY – 4/16/19
The famous Notre Dame Cathedral went up in flames yesterday into last night, with the entire wooden structure of it as well as its iconic spire collapsing as a result of the fire. Despite the large fire consuming much of the building, 800 firefighters were deployed at the site and managed to save numerous pieces of art as well as saving the famous bell towers from suffering.
The historic place of worship was built over 850 years ago. Since then, Columbus discovered North America, the Byzantine Empire fell, Europe was struck with the Black Plague and then went through a renaissance period. Although there were no casualties, the fire has been deemed as a massive tragedy for France and the rest of the world. World leaders have sent in statements and apologies mourning the great loss of architectural and historical beauty.
The fire has since been smoldered, but Parisians were seen singing prayers and songs throughout the night. The mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, will be setting up a “major international conference of donors” in an effort to restore the cathedral. The family of French billionaire Bernard Arnault has pledged $226 million as well as French businessman François Pinault pledged $112 million for the rebuilding efforts.
Sources and Pictures: CNN, ABC 33/40, Wikipedia, Twitter
