Queen Elizabeth Says the Royal Family Is ‘Deeply Saddened’ By the Notre-Dame Fire

People all around the world were stunned and tearful when the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral went up in flames on Monday, April 15. After Queen Elizabeth learned about the devastating news, she immediately sent a message to the president of France, Emmanuel Macron, sending her regards to everyone affected by the tragedy.

“Prince Philip and I have been deeply saddened to see the images of the fire which has engulfed Notre-Dame Cathedral,” the 92-year-old monarch said in a message posted to the royal family’s official website. “I extend my sincere admiration to the emergency services who have risked their lives to try to save this important national monument. My thoughts and prayers are with those who worship at the Cathedral and all of France at this difficult time.”

Prince Charles and wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall followed suit, releasing a statement about the devastation. “I realize only too well what a truly special significance the Cathedral holds at the heart of your nation; but also for us all outside France it represents one of the greatest architectural achievements of Western Civilization,” the 70-year-old said.

“Cher Monsieur le Président, our hearts go out to you and the people of France more than you can ever know, especially in view of our experience with the devastating fire at Windsor Castle twenty-seven years ago,” Charles added. “We send you our most profound sympathy, however inadequate that may be.”

Since Emmanuel Macron said they would rebuild the cathedral as soon as possible, Salma Hayek‘s husband, François-Henri Pinault, agreed to pledge nearly $113 million to help with the cost.

“My father [François Pinault] and myself have decided to release a sum of €100 million from our Artemis funds [the family holding company] to participate in the effort that will be necessary for the complete reconstruction of Notre-Dame,” the actress’ husband said in a statement, according to the French newspaper Le Figaro.

“As many others I’m in deep shock and sadness to witness the beauty of Notre-Dame turn into smoke,” Salma added via Instagram. “I love you Paris.”