Notre Dame des Champs, a prominent church in the lively Montparnasse neighbourhood of Paris, has been temporarily closed after two fires broke out there in as many days, one of which appears to be criminal
The first blaze on 23 July, probably caused by an electrical failure, created thick black smoke that gave the impression of a major blaze. It was quickly put out by firemen.
“It was a completely accidental fire that started in a small choir organ,” district mayor Jean-Pierre Lecoq said. “The damage is limited – the choir organ is demolished, and recently renovated paintings are blackened.”
The next day, shortly before 5pm when the building was closed, one or more vandals entered and set fire to panels around a statue of Saint Joseph in a side chapel.
The statue fell and broke while firemen were putting out the blaze.
Photos posted on the parish website showed a damaged painting, some burned pews and smoke-blackened walls.
An accompanying message said the church would remain closed “for the investigation and the restoration of the building”.
Parish priest Fr Camille Millour said the second fire caused more damage and this “raises questions about (the fire’s) origin”. Police sources told French media they assume it was set on purpose and are searching the site for DNA traces.
Fires and theft are frequent problems in French churches. Parishes often cannot afford to update antiquated electrical systems in churches or install burglar alarms to protect sacred art.
There were 50 fires or attempted arson cases in France last year compared to 38 in 2023, according to a recent government report. As for thefts, it said there five a week on average.
Notre Dame de Paris cathedral reopened last December after almost being destroyed in an accidental 2019 blaze.
Saints Peter and Paul cathedral in Nantes will partially reopen in September after a criminal blaze in 2020.
Notre Dame des Champs recently began a fundraising drive to pay for a new lighting system to be installed before its 150th anniversary next year.
“What we have experienced,” Fr Millour wrote, “confirms to me that the renovation of the lighting is essential, not just for the beautification of the church, but also for its safety.”