Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Nantes

Blaze ravages 19th century French cathedral

Firefighters are now scrambling to save some of the precious objects inside the basilica, notably the organ.

France Basillica Firefighters hose water to put out the fire in a basilica in Nantes. Laetitia Notarianni / PA Laetitia Notarianni / PA / PA

A SPECTACULAR BLAZE ravaged the roof of a 19th century basilica in western France today, causing major damage but no injuries, authorities said.

The fire in Nantes is “probably linked to waterproofing work that was taking place on the roof,” said the city’s chief fire officer, who added the blaze had been “contained” by mid-morning.

Laetitia Notarianni Laetitia Notarianni

Some 60 firefighters attacked the inferno at the basilica Saint-Donatien, which broke out around 10.45am local time.

Two workers on the roof when the blaze broke out were left unhurt. The back part of the basilica has been seriously damaged and some of the wooden beams have given way, authorities said.

Laetitia Notarianni Laetitia Notarianni

Firefighters are now scrambling to save some of the precious objects inside the basilica, notably the organ.

- © AFP 2015.

Read: A fire in Dublin is causing traffic problems>

Read: Firefighter’s ‘mask slipped’ as crew responded to toxic fumes emergency>

Your Voice
Readers Comments
10
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.