I was interested to learn that the collasped spire was a relatively recent construction designed in part by Viollet-le-Duc in mid 1800's (a name/restorer you run into quickly if studying medieval castles/buildings). He did not restore the original (which I haven't been able to find a picture of yet) but designed something new in lead covered wood. They appear to once again be asking for a new design, and it will be interesting to see what is proposed/chosen.
I stumbled accross this in a story about the cathedral on Wiki:
"A decade-long renovation program began in 1991 and replaced much of the exterior, with care given to retain the authentic architectural elements of the cathedral, including rigorous inspection of new limestone blocks. A discreet system of electrical wires, not visible from below, was also installed on the roof to deter pigeons."
The restoration work that was in progress at the time of the fire is the most likely cause but other factors might have contributed such as example above.
I wish people would leave the poor pigeons alone.
I stumbled accross this in a story about the cathedral on Wiki:
"A decade-long renovation program began in 1991 and replaced much of the exterior, with care given to retain the authentic architectural elements of the cathedral, including rigorous inspection of new limestone blocks. A discreet system of electrical wires, not visible from below, was also installed on the roof to deter pigeons."
The restoration work that was in progress at the time of the fire is the most likely cause but other factors might have contributed such as example above.
I wish people would leave the poor pigeons alone.
