Limoges City Hall burns as protests turn violent, tower at risk

Protesters stormed Limoges City Hall on Saturday, October 17, 2026, setting the ground floor ablaze, with flames reaching the roof by evening. Firefighters are struggling to contain the fire, and the building's iconic campanile tower is at risk of collapse. The fire began in the late afternoon after a peaceful morning demonstration turned violent. Police cars were burned, shops were looted, and projectiles were thrown at officers, who responded with tear gas. Four police vehicles were destroyed, and injuries were reported on both sides. The prefecture estimated several hundred protesters were present. Local opposition leaders condemned the destruction, calling it an attack on common property. The mayor was scheduled to speak at 8:30 PM, and damage is expected to reach tens of millions of euros.