Spire Collapses After Fire Rips Through Copenhagen’s Old Stock Exchange

A Landmark Engulfed

A massive fire erupted in Copenhagen’s old stock exchange early this morning, swiftly leading to the collapse of its iconic 56-meter spire. The old stock exchange, a prominent feature in the Danish capital known for its unique dragon tail-shaped spire, was caught in flames that devastated parts of the historic structure and led to a frantic effort to save its treasures.

Historical Significance Lost

Brian Mikkelsen, CEO of the Danish Chamber of Commerce, expressed profound distress as the 17th-century building, which housed the chamber, was consumed by fire. “It is a huge disaster,” Mikkelsen remarked, emphasizing the loss of 400 years of cultural history. The building, significant not just to Denmark’s heritage but also to its business history, stood as a testament to architectural and historical wealth since its construction in 1625.

Rescue Efforts Amidst Flames

As the fire blazed, commuters and bystanders witnessed the dramatic collapse of the spire. Emergency responders and brave civilians rushed into the building to salvage what they could, including valuable Renaissance paintings and other irreplaceable artifacts. Among the saved items was a notable 1895 painting by Danish artist Peder Severin Krøyer.

National Response to the Crisis

The blaze drew immediate comparisons to the Notre Dame fire in Paris, with Denmark’s Deputy Prime Minister Troels Lund Poulsen calling it “our own Notre Dame moment.” As the fire department and police coordinated a large-scale response, efforts continued well into the day to control the fire, which had spread throughout the building.

Cultural and Economic Impact

The fire’s destruction has been profound, with significant damage to both the structure and the contents of the old stock exchange. Copenhagen police urged the public to avoid the area, thankfully reporting no injuries despite the severity of the fire. The incident has mobilized a national reflection on the preservation of cultural heritage, underscored by comments from Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and cultural officials.

Ongoing Challenges and Recovery

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the focus remains on recovery and assessing the full extent of the damage. The firefighting efforts were complicated by the building’s construction and the materials involved, which made controlling the blaze particularly challenging. The community’s response, marked by solidarity in rescue efforts, highlights the deep cultural connection to the historic Børsen building and the collective mourning for its loss.