Fire largely destroys historic Limoges town hall

A fire on October 17 largely destroyed Limoges’ historic town hall as demonstrations over living costs and school conditions spread across France, authorities said. The building’s spire collapsed, and the Haute-Vienne prefecture reported extensive damage to the 1883 landmark. The blaze followed a demonstration in Limoges. Witnesses said masked individuals broke windows, entered the building and started a fire, but the accounts do not establish who they were or their affiliations. Authorities have yet to determine the precise circumstances of the fire or who was responsible. Prefect Maurice Barate said the roof had collapsed onto the lower floors, except for the west wing, and about two-thirds of the exterior had disappeared. The extent of damage that can be repaired or preserved has not been established. The fire was among the most severe incidents during nationwide demonstrations on Saturday, October 17. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez estimated that about 550,000 people took part in marches across France. Organizers’ estimates put attendance at about 800,000. The protests brought together students, workers and trade union members, with grievances including rising living...