The Copenhagen Stock Exchange Building, a historic and iconic structure in the heart of Denmark's capital city, was engulfed in flames as smoke poured from its windows. The building, known for its stunning architecture and rich history, has long been a symbol of economic power and prosperity in the region.
As firefighters rushed to the scene to battle the blaze, onlookers gathered in shock and disbelief at the sight of such a beloved landmark being consumed by fire. The thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky cast a dark shadow over the city, leaving residents and tourists alike feeling a sense of loss and sadness.
The building, which is situated next to the Christiansborg Palace where the parliament sits, is a popular tourist attraction. Its distinctive spire, in the shape of the tails of four dragons twined together, reached a height of 56 meters (184 feet).
Huge billows of smoke rose over downtown Copenhagen and people were seen rushing inside the building to save paintings. Danish media reported that an annex of the parliament was being evacuated.
The Danish Minister of Culture Jakob Engel-Schmidt said that the images he had seen of Boersen on fire were “terrible.”
“Terrible pictures from the Stock Exchange this morning. 400 years of Danish cultural heritage in flames,” he said. Credit: Albert Søgaard Thomsen via Storyful
The historic building, with a spire shaped like the tails of four dragons intertwined, had been undergoing renovations when the fire broke out.
The Dutch Renaissance-style building no longer houses the Danish stock exchange, but serves as the headquarters of the Danish Chamber of Commerce.
It's not immediately clear what caused the fire.
Despite the devastation, there was hope that this resilient structure would rise from the ashes once again, serving as a reminder of Copenhagen's enduring strength and resilience. As the flames were finally extinguished and the smoke began to dissipate, it became clear that this historic building would forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who call Denmark home.
Police said on the social media site X that a main road in Copenhagen was closed and people should expect the area to be cordoned off for some time.
The cause of the fire was not immediately known.
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