Cordoba’s mosque-cathedral narrowly escapes devastating fire

Saturday 09 August 2025 - 08:35

Authorities in Spain have confirmed that the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic examples of Andalusian art, has been saved from a potentially devastating fire. The blaze broke out on Friday evening but was quickly brought under control by firefighters.

Mayor José María Bellido announced on national radio that “the monument is saved” and praised the swift and efficient response of emergency crews, which prevented a disaster similar to the 2019 Notre-Dame de Paris fire.

The fire began around 9 p.m. local time in the central chapel, located in the historic Almanzor section, before spreading to part of the vaulted roof. Initial reports suggest that stored cleaning and audiovisual equipment may have been the source, possibly due to a battery malfunction or electrical fault.

Built between the 8th and 10th centuries under the Umayyad dynasty, the building was originally a mosque before being converted into a cathedral in 1236 after the Christian reconquest. Today, it welcomes over two million visitors annually.

Although the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, officials have confirmed that the structure remains intact. Fire and police teams will continue monitoring the site to prevent any flare-ups.