Historic Copenhagen old stock exchange building erupts in flames
As Paris commemorated five years of recovery since the devastating fire at Notre Dame Cathedral, Copenhagen faced its own tragic blaze at a historic landmark. The city's old stock exchange building, dating back to the 17th century, was engulfed in flames on Tuesday, marking a somber moment for locals and visitors alike.
"This is our Notre Dame," remarked a local craftsman to Danish TV, highlighting the profound impact of the fire on the community.
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, yet it has caused extensive damage to the historic structure. The old stock exchange, also known as Børsen, has stood since 1625 and holds a significant place in Copenhagen's architectural heritage, according to the Danish Tourist Offices website.
Among the losses is the building's iconic spire, renowned for its symbolic protection against adversities like enemy attacks and fires, as per local legends documented on the tourism site. The spire, characterized by entwined dragons' tails and towering at 184 feet, has been a defining feature of the building's resilience throughout history.
Despite past fires in neighboring buildings, which mysteriously spared Børsen, this time it succumbed. Video footage captured by the Associated Press captures the heartbreaking moment of the spire's collapse.
King Frederik X of Denmark expressed sorrow over the loss, acknowledging Børsen as a cherished symbol of Copenhagen's architectural and cultural legacy. He lamented the sight of smoke shrouding the city's rooftops and emphasized the building's longstanding significance as a distinctive landmark and source of national pride.
The fire at Børsen serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of historical treasures and the collective responsibility to preserve and protect our architectural heritage for future generations.
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