What Happened at Notre Dame
On April 15, 2019, a large fire broke out at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The blaze destroyed much of the roof and caused the iconic spire to collapse. Firefighters responded quickly and worked for hours to contain the fire and protect the main structure.
What Started the Notre Dame Fire
Investigators concluded the fire was likely caused by an accidental electrical short circuit. The blaze started in the attic area beneath the roof, where renovation work was underway. The fire spread quickly because of the wooden framework, known as the "forest," that made up the roof structure.
Damage and Restoration Efforts
The fire caused severe damage to the roof and spire, but the main stone walls and towers were largely saved. Significant water damage also affected the interior. Cleanup and restoration work began immediately, with ongoing efforts to repair the cathedral and reinforce its structure.
For more details on the investigation and restoration timeline, see the official report from the French government and the National Police forensic office: Official French Government Report.
