LONDON (AP) — A fire broke out Saturday at Somerset House, a major arts venue on the River Thames in central London.
Smoke was billowing from the building and flames could be seen rising from the roof as firefighters from tall ladders doused it with water.
The cause of the blaze is still unknown, according to the London Fire Brigade, who said 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters were called to the scene.
Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters were dispatched to tackle the blaze. #Somerset House.
Firefighters are battling a fire that broke out in part of the building’s roof. https://t.co/jDdNzqxt6z
— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) August 17, 2024
Somerset House said in a statement that all staff and audience members had been assured they were safe and the venue, which was due to host a breakdancing event, had been closed.
Nearly 250 years old, this neoclassical building is home to the Courtauld Gallery of Art, showcasing works by Van Gogh, Manet and Cézanne.
