Notre-Dame, one of the most emblematic landmarks of Paris, damaged in a major fire.

A major fire hit on Monday night at the historic cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris, destroying the spire of the monument and most of its roof.

Fire crews and investigators are currently assessing the extent of the damage to the cathedral, which dates back several centuries, less than a day after hundreds of firefighters battled and extinguished the incessant flames.

Still, many of Notre Dame’s most prized relics were saved, including a crown of thorns believed to be a “band of rushes” from the original crown of thorns placed on Jesus’s head during the crucifixion.

The Notre Dame Church, where more than 6,000 devotees can stay at one and the same time, is called the heart of France.

François-Henri Pinault, a French billionaire, has offered to donate € 100 million to the French President Emmanuel MacRon, who has vowed to rebuild the Notre Dame Cathedral.