Notre-Dame de Paris: From searing emotion to the rebirth of a heritage site

Of all the historic monuments on earth, Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the 'superstars': its unique history, exceptional architecture and renowned artefacts attract millions of visitors to Paris

On the night of April 15, 2019, in Paris, the emotions were raw.

“Notre Dame is burning, the whole of France is crying, the whole world is crying,” said Archbishop Michel Aupetit of Paris. “It’s terrible, frightening, painful, a tragedy, a nightmare.”

“This place leaves no one untouched. When you enter this cathedral, it inhabits you,” said Anne Hidalgo, the Mayor of Paris, in front of the burning monument.

“We will rebuild,” said the Rector of Notre Dame, “we will rebuild.”

In the light of the day, the extent of the destruction was stunning. The cathedral’s 93-metre spire had collapsed, two-thirds