A historic town hall in Limoges has been damaged in what authorities are treating as an apparent arson attack, leaving residents in the city centre stunned and upset.
The blaze, which affected the landmark municipal building, came after a day of nationwide protests in France. Local people described the scene as 'very upsetting', saying the attack had struck at a cherished part of the community's heritage.
Police and emergency services are investigating the circumstances of the incident and the cause of the fire. Officials have said inquiries are under way to establish whether the damage was linked to the demonstrations earlier in the day.
The town hall, long regarded as an important civic and historical site in Limoges, will now face an assessment of the damage and consideration of restoration needs. Residents and local leaders have expressed concern over both the physical loss and the wider effects on the community.
Further details have not been released while investigators continue their work. The incident adds to tensions on a day that saw protests across the country, although the connection between those events and the attack remains to be determined.