BILLINGS- It is one of the most iconic structures in the world, and when news broke Monday that the Cathedral of Notre Dame was burning, it caught the attention of people all around the world.
Former Q2 Anchor Jay Kohn was one of those glued to the television.
“The minute I looked at it and saw the images I was like I just had the feeling like someone just kicked you in the stomach I just went, oh no,” said Kohn, who visited Paris last September on a Q2 Holiday Vacation with his wife Judy and a group of Montanans.
Kohn says he not only felt bad for the historic loss the fire caused, but also for all the people who depend on the Cathedral for their livelihood.
“It’s the most visited cathedral or shrine in the world. Can you imagine 13 million people a year? So, I just felt so bad. All the little shops and restaurants and places around there that thrive because it’s such a popular tourist attraction. I’m sure it will still be, but boy it’s going to be a rough as it recovers,” Kohn said.
Despite the wreckage, much of the history inside is still standing. French President Emanuel Macron said Tuesday that he is hoping for reconstruction in five years, but experts warn it could take decades of reconstruction.
