French billionaires and companies pledged on Tuesday more than $700 million to rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral aftermath the devastating fire, flared up on Monday.
LVMH Group, owned by Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Givenchy, said: "they will donate €200 million ($226 million)."
The company said: "its donation reflects solidarity over the national tragedy, adding these funds would be used to rebuild the cathedral, which is the symbol of French heritage and unity."
LVMH will provide its innovative and financial teams to support the reconstruction and direct donations.
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Notre Dame Fire Inside[/caption]
The Pinault family, the owner of brands including Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, also pledged an additional €100 million ($113 million).
"This tragedy is striking all the French people, and beyond that, all those attached to spiritual values," François-Henri Pinault, the CEO of Kering, said, according to CNN.
Meanwhile, Total, a major French oil, and gas company, also announced that it pledged €100 million ($113 million) to reconstruct the cathedral.
Also, Tech and consulting firm Capgemini offered €1 million ($1.1 million).
French cosmetics L'Oréal, along with the Bettencourt Meyers family, and the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation, said: "they will donate 200 million euros ($226 million) to the restoration efforts."
The Devastating Fire:
The blaze broke out on Monday at Notre Dame Cathedral devastating large parts of the 850-year-old church including its iconic spire.
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Notre Dame Blaze[/caption]
French President Emmanuel Macron pledged to reconstruct it, saying France would launch an international fundraising campaign to reconstruct the Cathedral.
About the Cathedral:
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most notable monuments in Paris. It is located on a small island called the “Ile de la Cite” in the middle of the River Seine.
The building of the cathedral was completed over the course of 200 years; it was started in 1163 during the reign of King Louis VII and was completed in 1345.
Contributed by Mohamed Helba
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