Historic Limoges town hall destroyed by fire during French protests

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 00:19 · Archive

The 143-year-old Limoges town hall in central France was set on fire amid unrest over the cost of living.

A 143-year-old town hall in Limoges, central France, was set on fire during unrest that followed nationwide demonstrations over the cost of living. The building was constructed in 1883 and designated a historic landmark in 1975. According to local prefect Maurice Barate, the roof collapsed onto the lower floors except for the west wing, and around two-thirds of the building's exterior had already disappeared. Barate called it a deliberate act and described it as a catastrophe for heritage.

The fire occurred as protests continued across France for a fourth week. On Saturday, around 400 people were arrested and more than half a million took part in over 100 marches across the country. Outgoing President Emmanuel Macron wrote on social media that those responsible for breaking into and attacking prefectures, businesses and town halls would be prosecuted and punished. He said there was no place for violence in the republic.

How it is being reported

• Limoges Town Hall 'largely lost' after far-left rioters set historic building on fire amid French unrestRioters set fire to the historic Limoges Town Hall, collapsing its roof and destroying much of the landmark as France's protests rage on.Fox News · 17 Oct, 23:56
• Historic Limoges town hall engulfed in flames amid protests in FranceLimoges town hall, a 143-year-old building in central France, was set on fire amid unrest following nationwide protests over the cost of living.Euronews · 17 Oct, 21:55

In this story: Limoges · France · Maurice Barate · Emmanuel Macron

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