President Putin asks Russia's best experts to restore Notre Dame Cathedral

The scene of devastation inside Notre Dame Cathedral after the fire on the evening of April 15. Photo:Reuters.

"Notre Dame Cathedral is a symbol of French history, a priceless treasure of European and world culture, one of the most important Christian relics. The tragedy that happened last night in Paris also caused pain in the hearts of Russians," the Kremlin announced on April 16 in a condolence message from Russian President Vladimir Putin to French President Emmanuel Macron.

The spire and most of the roof of Notre Dame Cathedral collapsed after a fire on the evening of April 15. Some artifacts and paintings were also lost. However, the main structure, the bell towers, the cathedral's important treasures and works of art were saved.

The Russian president hopes the cathedral can be restored and has offered to send "the best and most experienced Russian specialists in restoring cultural heritage structures" to assist France.

More than 400 firefighters battled for 12 hours to control the blaze, which is believed to have started on scaffolding erected during renovations to the 856-year-old Gothic cathedral. Two police officers and a firefighter were injured while battling the blaze.

The Paris prosecutor's office has opened a criminal investigation into the cause of the fire and is leaning towards the possibility that it was an accident. Firefighters believe that negligence during renovations led to the fire.

President Macron said that restoring Notre Dame is "certainly part of France's destiny." Donations from individuals and organizations to rebuild the cathedral have reached about 700 million euros ($790 million), but experts say the process could take a long time due to difficulties in collecting data and finding enough quality materials.