The spire of Rouen Cathedral, one of France's most iconic landmarks, has caught fire, the city's mayor said.
Images circulating on social media show flames emerging from what appears to be scaffolding near the top of the historic structure.
Emergency services are currently responding to the incident and the Cathedral was evacuated. The extent of the damage and the cause of the fire are yet to be determined.
BREAKING: The cathedral in Rouen, France is in flames.
— PeterSweden (@PeterSweden7) July 11, 2024
It's known for being one of the most spectacular gothic buildings.
I will keep you updated on any developments.pic.twitter.com/XS5i0pILZf
"A fire has started on the spire of Rouen Cathedral. Origin unknown at this stage. All public resources are mobilised," wrote the city's mayor Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol on X.
Stephane Gouezec, of the Seine-Maritime firefighters, later said the source of the fire had been located - in a spire that was under renovation - and crews were working to ensure there were no remaining "hot spots".
But he told reporters the risk of the flames spreading was low because the fire was in an area where there was mostly metal.
The cathedral is famed for its three towers, which represent different architectural periods spanning several centuries.
Rouen Cathedral holds a significant place in art history, having been the subject of numerous paintings by the renowned French impressionist Claude Monet in the 19th century.
Television footage on BFM TV captured a dark plume of smoke billowing from the spire as onlookers in the streets below gazed up in dismay.
The network reported that 33 fire engines and 63 firefighters had been deployed to the scene, and that public transportation in the area had been affected.
The spire, constructed of cast iron and standing at 151 metres, ranks among the tallest in Europe and holds the distinction of being the highest in France.
The cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is a major tourist attraction in Rouen. Historically significant, it served as the coronation site for the dukes of Normandy.
Within its walls lies a tomb containing the heart of Richard I, famously known as Richard the Lionheart, who reigned as King of England from 1189 until his death in 1199.
