Notre-Dame Cathedral Fire 'Most Likely Caused By Electrical Short Circuit'
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The Notre-Dame Cathedral fire could have started as a result of an electrical short-circuit, according to investigators.
#Breaking Investigators think an electrical short-circuit was the most likely cause of the Notre Dame Cathedral fire, a police official said
- Press Association (@PA) April 18, 2019
According to the MailOnline, these claims have come anonymously from a French judicial police official despite there being no access to the landmark yet due to safety reasons.
The fire broke out at around 6.40pm on Monday (15 April) and firefighters managed to 'save and preserve' the main structure although parts of the historic building in Paris, France, have been gutted.
The Paris prosecutors' office ruled out arson and possible terror-related motives - it is now being treated as an accident.
Thankfully, all precious artefacts and artwork have been saved from the historic building, according to a Notre Dame cathedral priest.
According to the BBC, these items included what is claimed to be the crown of thorns worn by Jesus before his crucifixion and also a tunic, which King Louis IX is said to have worn when he delivered the crown of thorns to Paris.
In a tweet, French journalist Nicolas Delesalle cited Père Frédéric, writing: "Good news: all the works of art were saved. The treasure of the Cathedral is intact, the Crown of thorns, the Holy sacraments."
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to rebuild the 850-year-old landmark saying that the 'worst has been avoided'.
He explained: "We'll rebuild this cathedral all together and it's undoubtedly part of the French destiny and the project we'll have for the coming years. That's what the French expect [and] because it's what our history deserves."
At the time of the inferno, mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, described the fire as 'terrible' and urged people to stay away from the blaze.
She said: "A terrible fire is underway at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The @PompiersParis are trying to control the flames. We are mobilised on the spot in close connection with the @dioceseParis. I ask everyone to respect the security perimeter."
The construction of Notre Dame - which means 'Our Lady' - began in 1160 and was mostly completed a hundred years later in 1260. It has been modified on numerous occasions throughout the centuries since.
Featured Image Credit: PA
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