The world was horrified yesterday as Paris’ iconic Notre Dame cathedral was ravaged by fire. Today, offers to help rebuild are pouring in, with Apple joining the chorus of companies and individuals promising contributions.
Apple CEO Tim Cook posted on Twitter this morning:
We are heartbroken for the French people and those around the world for whom Notre Dame is a symbol of hope. Relieved that everyone is safe. Apple will be donating to the rebuilding efforts to help restore Notre Dame’s precious heritage for future generations.
Cook did not name a specific amount for the contribution. In the past, Apple has donated $1 million to a range of disaster-recovery efforts.
Pledges of support for the cathedral rebuilding effort are coming in from around the world, but especially France itself. French billionaire Bernard Arnault promised €200 million ($226 million) to reconstruction. Paris has committed to €50 million ($56 million).
Notre Dame damage repairable
The cathedral caught fire last night, and burned for 15 hours before it could be extinguished. The roof is gone, as well as the central spire.
However, the two gothic belfry towers were spared thanks too efforts of firefighters. The organ and rose window seem to be safe. And the relics and much of the artwork inside was removed as the fire was spreading.
It’s not yet known how much repairing Notre Dame will cost, but almost certainly more than has already been pledged. Repairs are expected to take years, perhaps as much as a decade.
We are heartbroken for the French people and those around the world for whom Notre Dame is a symbol of hope. Relieved that everyone is safe. Apple will be donating to the rebuilding efforts to help restore Notre Dame’s precious heritage for future generations.
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 16, 2019
