France Protests: 143-Year-Old City Hall Gutted by Fire, Over 1,800 Arrested

A historic city hall in Limoges, central France, has been largely destroyed by fire as nationwide protests over the rising cost of living and declining public services escalated into violent clashes, looting and arson.

The 143-year-old building, inaugurated in 1883 and modelled after Paris City Hall, was set ablaze on Saturday by masked individuals who reportedly broke into the premises. The fire destroyed much of the roof and caused the collapse of its clock tower.

Maurice Barate, prefect of the Haute-Vienne region, described the destruction as a “catastrophe for heritage”. Limoges Mayor Guillaume Guérin condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.

The violence erupted during nationwide demonstrations on October 17, which brought together students, workers, parents and trade unions. Protesters demanded lower living costs, higher wages and pensions, improved public services and better conditions in schools.

The demonstrations began weeks earlier as student protests over staff shortages, deteriorating school facilities and problems with university admissions before expanding into a broader movement over economic hardship and government spending.

Although hundreds of thousands of people took part in marches across France, violent groups clashed with police, torched vehicles and looted businesses in several cities.

In Lyon, a historic tourist office was set on fire, while masked protesters stormed Marseille City Hall. Other incidents of vandalism and looting were reported in Paris and Bordeaux.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said more than 1,800 people had been arrested nationwide by Sunday, while Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu condemned the violence and insisted the government would not be intimidated.

President Emmanuel Macron also denounced the attacks, vowing that those responsible for vandalism, arson and looting would be prosecuted.

The unrest has intensified pressure on the government over its handling of public security and growing economic discontent, with France approaching its 2027 presidential election.