In brief
The historic city hall of Limoges was the target of an apparent arson attack following a day of nationwide demonstrations. Video footage shows the building engulfed in flames, with the clock tower’s spire collapsing later that night. Firefighters struggled through the blaze overnight, and on Sunday they opened the Structure to determine the building’s stability. Residents condemned the destruction, calling it selfish. BBC correspondent Chris Bockman has been on scene to report the latest developments.
A 19th‑century town hall in the French city of Limoges was set alight in what appears to be an act of arson after a day of nationwide protests. Video footage circulated online shows the historic building engulfed in flames, and later the spire of its clock tower collapsed.
Firefighters battled the blaze through the night; by Sunday residents watched as teams assessed the building’s structural integrity. Authorities have not confirmed whether the hall is at risk of collapse, but the damage is already severe.
One resident told the BBC: "Damaging heritage buildings because you’re angry with the government is selfish". The incident follows a surge of protests across France over the week, which have seen a mixture of demonstration and civil unrest.
BBC correspondent Chris Bockman reports from Limoges, providing on‑scene updates as the situation unfolds. For more on the broader protests across France, read the full coverage here.
