A huge fire has destroyed the spire on top of the famous Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.
The cause of the blaze on the 850-year-old Gothic building is not clear but smoke was visible from across the city at around 6pm.
French media quoted the Paris fire brigade saying the blaze is "potentially linked" to the renovation work.
Dramatic pictures and video on social media shows a fire spreading on the roof of the building.
Then just before 7pm the spire was seen plunging from the top of the building while in flames.
Emergency services are on the scene and have evacuated the surrounding areas of any tourists.
Officials said the blaze broke out on Monday afternoon and a major operation is underway to save the building.
The mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, described the blaze a "terrible fire" and warned people to keep at a safe distance.
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Last year, the Catholic Church in France launched an urgent appeal for funds to save the cathedral, which was starting to crumble.
US President Donald Trump tweeted: "So horrible to watch the massive fire at
Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Perhaps flying water tankers could be used to put it out. Must act quickly!"
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said: "A terrible fire is underway at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The fire brigade are trying to control the fire. We are mobilized locally in close connection with church authorities. I ask everyone to respect the security perimeter."
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