Famous landmark in flames: National Theater set on fire

By Michael Heitmann

Prague (Czech Republic) - A checkroom in Prague's National Theater caught fire this afternoon. The cause is still unknown.

A fire has broken out at the Czech National Theater in Prague. The flames broke out in a checkroom belonging to the cleaning staff, according to the fire department.

After just under an hour, the fire was brought under control and prevented from spreading further. The search for any hidden embers continued. A helicopter with a thermal imaging camera was also used for this purpose.

In view of the historical value of the 19th century theater building, the fire department was on site with a large contingent.

Pictures showed black smoke billowing out of a window on the top floor. The fire department deployed turntable ladders and fire engines.

According to the CTK agency, all theater employees were brought to safety. No injuries were reported. There were no spectators in the building at the time of the accident. An investigation has been launched into the cause of the fire.

The National Theatre in Prague is considered the most important stage in the country. The richly decorated building is located on the banks of the Vltava River.

Shortly after its first opening in 1881, the new National Theater fell victim to a fire that destroyed the stage and auditorium. At that time, it was rebuilt within two years. In addition to the insurance sum, a public fundraising campaign also contributed to this.