On Saturday, a significant fire broke out in the roof of Somerset House in London, prompting a major emergency response. Approximately 125 firefighters, supported by 25 fire engines, were deployed to combat the blaze that started just before midday. Despite the intensity of the fire, which affected the historic building’s roof, the major art collections within Somerset House—including renowned works by Manet, van Gogh, and Cézanne—remained untouched.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was quick to respond, with firefighters working diligently to contain and extinguish the flames. Keeley Foster, LFB’s assistant commissioner, provided updates during a media briefing. She highlighted the challenges posed by the building’s age and architectural design, which complicated the initial firefighting efforts. “Crews are now working to extinguish the final pockets of fire,” Foster stated.
Somerset House, a landmark dating back to 1547 and situated overlooking the River Thames, has served various roles throughout its history. Originally a royal palace and stately home, it now functions as a major arts, cultural, and entertainment center.
The fire originated in the west wing of Somerset House, which houses administrative offices rather than art collections. Fortunately, the Courtauld Gallery, located in the north wing of the building and home to an extensive collection of masterpieces spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, was not affected by the blaze.
Jonathan Reekie, director of the Somerset House Trust, commented on the situation, noting that while the main Somerset House building would remain closed to the public until further notice, the Courtauld Gallery is expected to reopen on Sunday. “It’s too early to comment on the building’s condition,” Reekie said, expressing confidence that the damage was confined to a small section of the building.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and crews will continue their work on-site overnight to ensure that all remaining hotspots are fully extinguished. There have been no reported injuries, and the London Police confirmed that no one was harmed during the incident.
This incident underscores the importance of rapid response and the challenges faced when dealing with fires in historic buildings. The quick and effective actions of the London Fire Brigade have played a crucial role in preserving Somerset House’s invaluable cultural assets.
