Historic Mosque of Córdoba Saved from Major Fire
The blaze started shortly after 9 p.m. in the Patio de los Naranjos, near the Puerta de San José, and was likely caused by a short circuit in a floor sweeper located in the Chapel of Almanzor.
Local media reported that the fire started when a mechanical sweeping machine caught fire inside the monument.
Fire crews quickly arrived and used five fire engines and a crane to tackle the flames. The area around Magistral González Francés Street was evacuated so they could work safely.
The town's mayor said the fire had been quickly extinguished and thanked the firefighters for their 'swift and magnificent' response, which prevented a 'catastrophic situation.'
'Fortunately, the swift and magnificent work of the #CordobaEsp firefighters has prevented a catastrophe. The fire is now extinguished, and tonight firefighting and local police teams will remain on site to prevent any risks,' the mayor wrote on X last night.
The Puerta de San José, a gate built in the 10th century and restored in 2017, is part of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Mosque-Cathedral is famous for its unique mix of Islamic art and Christian architecture, as it was converted into a cathedral in 1236.
Flames and smoke could be seen from different parts of the city, with many residents sharing videos on social media.
The Mosque-Cathedral reopened to visitors on Saturday morning, with only the damaged section closed off.
The fire drew comparisons to the 2019 Notre-Dame Cathedral blaze in Paris due to its dramatic flames and smoke.
The site, considered a jewel of Islamic architecture, was built between the 8th and 10th centuries by Muslim ruler Abd ar-Rahman before being converted into a cathedral.
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