What you need to know:

  • The history of Notre-Dame
  • What happened in the fire and what was destroyed?
  • How is the process of rebuilding taking place?
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More on Notre Dame fire

On Monday, April 15, the world watched stunned as the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris caught fire. UAE residents share fond memories of their visit to the church through pictures, and discuss the blaze that almost tore down a piece of history.

Tanika
Tanika and Jamie outside the Notre-Dame church in 2019 Image Credit: Supplied

Evidence of a united society

“The waves of devastation felt around the world as the Notre-Dame burned in flames was evidence of a masterpiece that sprouted magic not only within the memory of one, but the memories of all. Moreover, it was evidence of a society that can stand unified in the face of sorrow – a notion I hope to see continue."
Tanika D’souza, Dubai (with Jamie Errington)

Rebuilding a symbol

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Aroushi Malhotra in front of the Notre-Dame Church, Paris Image Credit: Supplied

“I set eyes on Notre-Dame, immortalised in Victor Hugo’s classic, on May 25, 2015. The endearing Quasimodo or ‘Hunchback’ and Esmeralda stole my heart. I remember being in awe of the grandeur and grandiloquence of this Gothic Cathedral which is sheer poetry in stone.
Right from the gargoyles perched atop, to the stunning spires, the vaulted ceilings, the stained glass windows and the priceless works of art and history housed within. Everything was a testament to the craftsmanship of the people of France. Former US President Barak Obama’s words on the tragedy portray the sentiment of many: ‘It’s in our nature to mourn when we see history lost - but it’s also our nature to rebuild for tomorrow, as strong as we can’”
Aroushi Malhotra, Dubai
 

Family trip

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A picture of the church taken by Ayusha E. Image Credit: Supplied

“I visied Notre-Dame De Paris [our Lady of Paris] last year on 12th April, 2018. It was a beautiful piece of French gothic architecture , with its history, beautiful stained glass and rose windows.”
Ayesha Ehtsham, Sharjah
 

Down memory lane

Honeymoon photo
The reader and her husband outside the iconic church in 2001 Image Credit: Supplied

“My husband and I went to visit the Notre Dame for our honeymoon in December 2001. Am so upset about the fire that damaged the cathedral.”
Julie Christy, Dubai