The 12th century monument is one of the most visited places in the world. That, of course, includes many Minnesota tourists.
"It's crazy and surreal," said Peggy Kerkhove of Champlin.
She and her husband were at the Notre Dame Cathedral two days ago taking in it's architectural beauty. Now they're wondering what's still intact during their last night in Paris.
"The stain glass was just amazing. To think that might be gone and you can't put it back," said Kerkhove.
Christina Selander Bouzouina is the Honorary Consul of France in Minnesota. She's been in touch with people outside the Cathedral.
"People don't want to leave because there's such an attachment to the cathedral," said Bouzouina. "There are few monuments as famous and as iconic
as Notre Dame. Of course Eiffel Tower, but Notre Dame has been present in a religious way, but also in literature and culture and art."
Archbishop of St. Paul Minneapolis Bernard Hepda has been to Notre Dame many times for mass. He is saddened by the destruction during this holy week.
"I know how important that church is not only to the people of Paris, but the people of France. That has to be devastating and I feel for them this day,"
said Bouzouina.
Christina says there is a silver lining with firefighters saving this landmark from total destruction.
"Renovate it bring it back to it's best Notre Dame that it can be now," she said.
The Basilica of Saint Mary plans to share a message to the people of Paris tomorrow during noon mass. A book of messages will be placed on the altar
which will be sent to the Archbishop of Paris.