17.10.2026 23:31
During anti-government protests in France, the historic town hall in the city of Limoges was set on fire. It was reported that the building, which opened in 1883 and is among the city's landmarks, suffered major damage, while experts assessed that the structure could not be saved. In demonstrations across the country that turned into violent incidents, 166 people were detained.
The historic town hall targeted by protesters in Limoges, France, was engulfed in flames. While the building was reported to have suffered severe damage, the incident highlighted the scale of violence in ongoing demonstrations across the country.
THEY SET THE 143-YEAR-OLD TOWN HALL ON FIRE
The town hall, one of Limoges's important historic structures, was set on fire during the protests. After the fire, it was reported that large parts of the building were damaged, and experts expressed the view that the structure could not be saved.
The building, which opened in 1883, was designed by architect Charles-Alfred Leclerc. Inspired by the Paris City Hall and built in Neo-Renaissance style, the structure was among the city's landmarks. The French government had also placed the building under protection as a historic monument in 1975.
PROTESTS SPREAD ACROSS THE COUNTRY
The incident in Limoges occurred during protests that began with reactions to the education system in France and turned into anti-government demonstrations.
Student actions launched against teacher shortages and poorly maintained school buildings in high schools in poor suburbs grew with the addition of reactions to the cost of living and public spending.
Thousands of people took to the streets in many cities, especially Paris, Lyon and Marseille, while clashes occurred between security forces and demonstrators. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowds.
166 PEOPLE DETAINED
The French Ministry of the Interior announced that 166 people were detained during demonstrations across the country. Authorities stated that by midday, 32,800 people had participated in hundreds of actions held only in cities outside Paris.
It was stated that in Paris, Marseille, Rennes, Toulouse and Angers, some groups targeted public buildings, attempted looting and arson, and attacked security forces. It was reported that a police station in Marseille was also attacked.
VIOLENCE WARNING FROM THE MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR
The French Ministry of the Interior announced that some hooded individuals were involved in violent acts during the demonstrations and that security forces intervened in the incidents.
Drawing attention to the possibility that violence could increase as protests continue, the Ministry said, "There is a very high probability that far-left elements will try to escalate the situation during the afternoon marches."