In pictures: Tears and shock as Notre-Dame burns

PARIS: A colossal fire swept through the famed Notre-Dame Cathedral in central Paris on Monday, causing a spire to collapse and threatening to destroy the entire masterpiece and its precious artworks.

The fire, which began in the early evening, sent flames and huge clouds of grey smoke billowing into the Paris sky as stunned Parisians and tourists watched on in sheer horror.

Some were in tears, others offered prayers from the banks of the river Seine as the much-loved attraction at the heart of the City of Light was consumed by the inferno.

 

Bystanders look on as flames and smoke billow from the roof at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. PHOTO: AFP

 

Bystanders look on as flames and smoke billow from the roof at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. PHOTO: REUTERS

 

People kneel on the pavement as they pray outside watching flames engulf Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. PHOTO: AFP

 

PHOTO: AFP

 

PHOTO: AFP

 

PHOTO: AFP

 

PHOTO: AFP

 

The steeple of the landmark Notre-Dame Cathedral collapses as the cathedral is engulfed in flames in central Paris. PHOTO: AFP

 

PHOTO: REUTERS

 

PHOTO: AFP