For Parisians, Notre Dame is at the heart of their city.

The news of the major blaze that caused significant damage shocked people around the world.

Politicians rushed to offer support after the loss of such a culturally significant building after a catastrophic fire engulfed the world-famous cathedral, toppling its spire and threatening the entire wooden frame of the building.

READ MORE: Notre Dame fire: iconic cathedral devastated by major blaze

Locals gathered in horror watching the inferno take hold of the cathedral, with many paying tribute as the flames engulfed

READ MORE: Note Dame fire in pictures: Famous cathedral engulfed in flames

The deputy mayor of Paris, Emmanuel Gregoire, said the cathedral had suffered “colossal damages”