As history went up in flames, the sound of song came from Paris' streetsOn what should have been a quiet Monday night in the French capital, thousands of people lined the streets to watch the most famous gothic church in the world burn.

The Notre Dame has survived a revolution, two world wars, occupation and over 800 years standing in the centre of Paris.

Reporter Megan Clement stood amongst the crowds in hushed awe as the fire was slowly subdued, and night fell.

Host:

Michael Bachelard: World Editor (Sydney Morning Herald and The Age)

Guests:

Megan Clement: Freelance reporter in France for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age

Story links: As history went up in flames, the sound of song came from Paris' streets - Megan Clement

Subscribe to The Age: https://subscribe.theage.com.au/ or

The Sydney Morning Herald: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/

How are we doing? Get in touch with the team: pleaseexplain@theage.com.au or pleaseexplain@smh.com.au