People are sharing their memories of the Notre Dame cathedral following a devastating fire

social media Is abuzz with heartbreaking images and memories of the world famous cathedral of Notre Dame, Paris, as it suffered a huge fire.

The iconic 850-year-old Gothic cathedral's spire and roof completely collapsed during the devastating fire, however the main structure, including its bell towers, have both been saved, according to officials.

President Macron called the fire a 'terrible tragedy' and the cause is not yet known, yet officials think it's linked to renovation work that began after cracks appeared in the stone, and that it was most probably an accident.

During the horrific blaze, people began sharing their memories of the iconic building that's been described as the 'symbol of a country'.

Many people got emotional.

Others mourned for our 'collective history'.

And shared their amazing photographs of the landmark.

Some thought of Quasimodo.

As well as their holiday snaps.

One even shared a touching photograph of what appears to be a father and child taken just minutes before the fire began.

As well as a large reaction from the public, the tragedy has also garnered responses from world leaders, as well as the Vatican that expressed its 'shock and sadness' at the news.

In a tweet, UK prime minister Theresa May said:

My thoughts are with the people of France tonight and with the emergency services who are fighting the terrible blaze at Notre-Dame cathedral.

Germany's chancellor Angela Merkel offered her support, calling the Notre Dame a...

...symbol of French and European culture.

HT Twitter moments

More: How newspapers around the world are reacting to the Notre Dame fire

More: Notre Dame fire: The difference between Trump and Obama's responses in just two tweets