# Notre-Dame Cathedral fire (2019)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/2019-notre-dame-cathedral-fire
Location: Paris

A major fire destroyed the medieval roof and spire, prompting an international restoration effort. Within the broader Fifth Republic period, The 1958 Constitution created a stronger presidency and a durable Fifth Republic. Decolonization, European integration, social change, economic shocks and recurring debates over identity, secularism and the role of the state have shaped contemporary France. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Emmanuel Macron (President of the French Republic). Notre-Dame Cathedral fire is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Notre-Dame Cathedral fire is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France.

Ruler at the time: [Emmanuel Macron](https://history-france.com/rulers/emmanuel-macron)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Notre-Dame Cathedral fire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Notre-Dame+Cathedral+fire&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Notre-Dame Cathedral fire](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Notre-Dame+Cathedral+fire)
- [Élysée — Institutions of the Fifth Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-institutions)