Video and photos posted on social media showed flames engulfing the church, before both the ceiling and the 90 meter — 295 foot — spire collapsed, drawing gasps and moans of disbelief from witnesses.
Police said there were no deaths and it is unclear if there were any injuries. The fire broke out just before 7 p.m., minutes after the cathedral closed to the public. Around 30,000 people visit the church daily.
Church spokesman Andre Finot told French media that the entire wooden interior, which dates from the 13th century, is burning and likely to be destroyed.
"Everything is burning, nothing will remain from the frame," Finot said
France 24 reported that the Paris prosecutor has begun an investigation into how the fire started.
The 12th century building was undergoing renovation work due to deterioration of structural elements.
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