(AFP/Getty Images) The medieval Notre Dame Cathedral, a popular landmark in Paris, was engulfed in flames early Tuesday morning (Manila time).
Reuters reported that smoke billowed out from the top of the gothic cathedral, as flames leapt out besides its two bell towers.
It was not immediately clear what had caused the fire. France 2 television reported that police were treating the incident as an accident.
The 12th century and is famous for featuring in Victor Hugo’s classic novel the Hunchback of Notre-Dame that is visited by millions of tourists every year.
The cathedral was in the midst of renovations, with some sections under scaffolding, while bronze statues were removed last week for works.
It can be noted that the fire occurred in the most important week in the Catholic faith, Holy Week, that is set aside for meditation, prayer, and renewal in faith.
Even if Parisians and worldwide viewers watched the church’s spire fall, Paris fire chief Jean-Claude Gallet announced that the cathedral’s main structure was saved from complete destruction.
The priest in charge of the centuries-old church said a centuries-old crown of thorns made from reeds and gold and the tunic worn by Saint Louis, a 13th century king of France, were saved.
However, Monsignor Patrick Chauvet said but firefighters had struggled to take down some of the large paintings in time.
Paris prosecutors started an inquiry to determine the cause of the fire.
President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, cancelled his address to the nation and proceeded to view the status of the burning church himself.
The Vatican described that church as a “symbol of Christianity in France and in the world,” expressed shock and sadness over the incident as well as offered prayers for the firefighters.
