A massive fire has devastated Copenhagen's old stock exchange, a renowned landmark in the Danish capital. The fire caused the spire of the 17th-century building to collapse, prompting staff and citizens to rush to salvage paintings and historic artifacts from the inferno.
The CEO of the Danish Chamber of Commerce expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the cultural significance of the building and its contents. Stunned onlookers witnessed the dramatic scene as the fire engulfed the building's distinctive spire, shaped like the tail of four entwined dragons, before it crumbled to the ground.
Passersby and emergency services personnel worked together to rescue valuable items, including a notable painting by Danish artist Peder Severin Krøyer. The Deputy Prime Minister likened the incident to the Notre Dame fire, highlighting the emotional impact on the nation.
The fire, which started in the morning, rapidly consumed nearly half of the building by midday, with efforts to contain it ongoing. Authorities urged people to avoid the area, although there have been no reported injuries.
The Chamber of Commerce lamented the tragedy, emphasizing the irreplaceable loss of Danish history. The building, a centerpiece of Danish business since the 17th century, was undergoing renovations at the time of the fire.
Emergency services faced challenges in extinguishing the blaze, which had spread throughout the building. Firefighters and military personnel collaborated to rescue valuables and control the fire, which posed difficulties due to the building's structure.
The Minister of Culture expressed sadness over the damage to 400 years of cultural heritage, praising the collaborative efforts to save precious artifacts. The fire department continued its intense efforts to combat the fire, requiring specialized techniques to address the unique challenges posed by the building's construction.
