The Notre Dame cathedral, one of the most iconic structures in Paris, will never be the same, having largely succumbed to an out of control fire Monday evening. The spire was the first thing to collapse, followed by the entire roof.
Yet, the first photos capturing the inside of the 850-year-old cathedral revealed an incredible sight. The cross is still standing.
neither flame nor the efforts of man. the cross still stands. pic.twitter.com/dc06dQQ844
— T. Becket Adams (@BecketAdams) April 15, 2019
This picture of the cross still standing amid the ruins of Notre Dame is quite the picture of hope. pic.twitter.com/lON2eyDPda
— Kyle Beshears (@kylebeshears) April 15, 2019
Powerful footage from Paris. Amidst the flames, ash, and rubble, the altar and cross clearly remain intact at Notre-Dame Cathedral. Truly a symbol of hope, purpose, and love during Holy Week as we prepare to celebrate Easter around the world. pic.twitter.com/JHCOh2u7qU
— Chandler Thornton (@chandlerUSA) April 15, 2019
In fact, most of the interior appears to have been preserved. Un miracle incroyable.
Inside #NotreDame. Only a small part of the vault collapsed. Interior seems relatively untouched. Alleluia! #NotreDame #Paris pic.twitter.com/Ni2PziGfEC
— Notre-Dame Cathedral (@CathedraleNotre) April 15, 2019
Notre Dame's bell tower and main structure have also reportedly been spared.
There have been other inspiring sights on the streets of Paris tonight, including the moment a group of bystanders broke out in song and prayer.
Ave Maria pic.twitter.com/lb6Y5XV05a
— Ignacio Gil (@Inaki_Gil) April 15, 2019
French President Emmanuel Macron was somber, yet steadfast in his speech tonight outside the cathedral. He vowed that France would rebuild Notre Dame because it's their "destiny." The leader announced an international fundraising campaign to help with the effort.