Masked protesters burn historic Limoges town hall, largely destroying 143-year-old building

Masked demonstrators set fire to the historic town hall of Limoges, France, during nationwide protests, leaving the 143-year-old building largely destroyed. Authorities called it a deliberate act by rioters. The fire caused the roof to collapse onto lower floors, with two-thirds of the facade lost, according to Prefect Maurice Barate. The building, completed in 1883, was a significant cultural heritage site and a World War II resistance center. The arson occurred during protests against high living costs and education issues, which drew 550,000 to 800,000 participants nationwide. Violence erupted in multiple cities, with around 400 arrests reported.