People have donated one billion dollars to help rebuild the Notre Dame cathedral Paris. The 850-year-old cathedral was badly damaged a fire on Monday. The UNESCO World Heritage site is one the most important cultural buildings France. Wealthy people from all France and around the world have given hundreds of millions dollars to help restore the cathedral to its former glory. French president Emmanuel Macron told the nation a televised address that he would make sure the reconstruction would be finished five years. This would be in time for the opening the Paris Olympics in 2024. However, architects say it could take decades to rebuild the world-famous landmark.
Some the donors that are handing over cash are French billionaires. They include the owners the luxury brand Louis Vuitton and the cosmetics company L'Oreal. The French oil company Total is also pledging 100 million euros. Apple CEO Tim Cook tweeted that his company would donate an unspecified amount. He said: "We are heartbroken the French people and those the world whom Notre Dame is a symbol hope. Relieved that everyone is safe. Apple will be donating to the rebuilding efforts to help restore Notre Dame's precious heritage future generations." However, many people are asking whether the money would be better spent helping the world's poor.
