Fire at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris

Having been hosted by France in Paris at the invitation of André Malraux since 1965, ICOMOS has a special connection to this city. ICOMOS and all its members express their profound solidarity to our French colleagues, Parisians and the whole country and put our collective knowledge and energy at their service.

Please see below the statement by ICOMOS France on the fire at the Cathedral of Notre Dame:

"ICOMOS France is touched by the messages of support and concern for French heritage that continue to pour in since last night from all over the world. The devastating fire of a major part of the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Paris deprives us all of an emblematic monument that has witnessed eight hundred and fifty years of history. We are immensely sad and deeply distressed by this tragedy. ICOMOS France pays tribute to the fire brigades of Paris and to all those who skillfully and courageously rescued part of the cathedral.

The entire international community has suffered a tragic loss. We will have to be strong and mobilize quickly to face the aftermath of this tragedy. The collective skills and expertise of ICOMOS members will put at the service of France during this difficult time.

On behalf of ICOMOS France, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your solidarity.

Jean-François Lagneau
President of ICOMOS France"