On October 17, 2026, in the French city of Limoges, mass protests against the rising cost of living led to protesters setting fire to the historic city hall. As a result of the fire, a 43-meter bell tower, which had stood for 143 years, collapsed.
Details of the Incident
According to AFP, masked protesters first set fire to a police car parked in front of the city hall. They then broke the windows of the building and entered inside, where they started a fire.
Consequences of the Fire
The flames quickly spread to the roof of the city hall, leading to the collapse of the bell tower. The building itself also suffered significant damage. The Limoges city hall was built in 1883 and has been protected as a historical monument since 1975.
Context of the Protests
Today's events in Limoges are part of a broader wave of protests sweeping across France, triggered by the rising prices of essential goods and services. Protests have intensified in recent days, and the situation remains tense.