The moment the cathedral's 19th-century spire collapsed. AFP
Smoke surrounds the cross of Notre-Dame's altar. AFP
The 12th-century cathedral had been undergoing long-awaited renovations when the blaze broke out. PHILIPPE WOJAZER, AFP
A huge fire engulfed the Notre Dame Cathedral on Monday, April 15, in the heart of Paris, spouting flames and billowing smoke across the sky. Hubert Hitier, AFP
Around 500 firefighters were called on to tackle the blaze, which began at 18:50 (16:50 GMT). GEOFFROY VAN DER HASSELT, AFP
An aerial view of the blaze. AFP
Firefighters put out flames engulfing Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral on Monday, April 15. Thomas Samson, AFP
With the fire under control, teams were able to enter the cathedral and see the extent of the damage caused. PHILIPPE WOJAZER, AFP
Firefighters approach Notre-Dame Cathedral over the Archbishop’s Bridge. GEOFFROY VAN DER HASSELT, AFP