A fire that broke out on the roof of Somerset House in London on Saturday has garnered significant attention due to the building’s historic significance and the scale of the incident. Approximately 125 firefighters responded to the blaze, deploying 25 fire engines to combat the flames, which were reported just before noon.
Somerset House, dating back to 1547, is a historic landmark situated on the banks of the River Thames. It boasts a rich history, serving as a royal palace and stately home, the residence of Princess Elizabeth before her coronation as Queen Elizabeth I, and the headquarters of the Parliamentary Army during the English Civil War. The building also housed the Admiralty and the Inland Revenue in later years. Notably, it survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, which devastated much of the City of London.
The fire at Somerset House has raised several concerns due to the building’s historical and cultural significance:
*
Preservation of Art Collections:
While the fire raged, the major art collections within the building, including works by renowned artists like Manet, van Gogh, and Cezanne, remained unharmed. This is a significant relief, preserving the integrity of Somerset House’s renowned art holdings.*
Challenges for Firefighters:
The historic nature of Somerset House presented difficulties for firefighters. The building’s age and design made it challenging for crews to effectively extinguish the blaze, particularly in the roof space.*
No Injuries Reported:
Fortunately, authorities confirmed that there were no injuries resulting from the fire, a comforting outcome given the magnitude of the emergency response.*
Impact on Public Access:
The main Somerset House building will remain closed to the public until further notice. However, the Courtauld Gallery, housed in the building’s north wing and showcasing masterpieces from various eras, will reopen on Sunday. This ensures continued access to important cultural collections despite the fire.*
