By Brian Ries, Veronica Rocha, Rob Picheta, Euan McKirdy, Jessie Yeung, Gianluca Mezzofiore and Paul P. Murphy, CNN
From CNN's Martin Goillandeau in London
The fire department is trying to control a “terrible fire” that’s broke out at Notre Dame cathedral, Mayor Anne Hidalgo said.
Hidalgo tweeted:
“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.”
From CNN's Saskya Vandoorne
The medieval cathedral was completed in the 13th century and today, with its towers, spire, flying buttresses and stained glass, is considered a feat of architecture as much as a religious symbol.
It is one of Paris' most popular attractions, drawing an estimated 13 million visitors a year.
Today, it is in flames.
Twitter users are sharing various angles of the fire at Notre Dame.
From CNN's Saskya Vandoorne
Police in Paris say the Notre Dame cathedral is on fire.
In a tweet, police said: “Notre Dame Fire in progress. Avoid the area and facilitate the passage of emergency vehicles and intervention of the @prefpolice."