Arson attack on the Notre-Dame-des-Champs Church in Paris
The Church of Notre-Dame-des-Champs in Paris was closed to the public after two fires occurred within 48 hours on July 23 and 24, 2025. One of the fires was confirmed to be of criminal origin. Authorities launched an investigation while restoration has begun on the damaged interior.
On July 23 and 24, 2025, the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Champs in Paris experienced two separate fires in under 24 hours. The first fire was said to be caused by an electrical failure and destroyed the choir organ and two recently rennovated paintings.
The second fire, which occurred the following night, caused more extensive destruction. It broke out in the St. Joseph chapel while the church was closed to repair the damage from the first fire. Photos of the destruction show a damaged wall and painting, burnt pews and chairs, and a destroyed statue. Firefighters responded promptly, but the damage is extensive. Officials confirmed the second fire to be of criminal origin. A formal investigation was opened to determine the cause and identify those responsible, and a suspect has been arrested by the police.
According to a recent government report, there have been 50 cases of fires or attempted arson in France over the past year, up from 38 incidents recorded in 2023.
Sources: CNA, The Tablet, BVoltaire
Photo: Wikipedia. By Ralf.treinen - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
