Silesian cathedral devastated in blaze

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A priest alerted the fire brigade shortly after midnight, but although fire-fighters were swift to reach the scene, by the time they had arrived the blaze had spread across about 40 percent of the roof.

The cathedral's tower collapsed, and it was not until 5 am that the flames were extinguished, with 60 fire-fighters taking part in the action.

Unfortunately, highly prized wall paintings were damaged in the blaze.

“I'm lost for words,” commented Father Tomasz Nowak on the diocese's official web site.

The cathedral, which was founded in 1899, had recently undergone conservation.

The immediate priority is to shore up the roof, as with winter looming, rain and snow may be imminent.

While the fire was still raging, firemen searched the cathedral, and confirmed that they were no casualties.

Fire brigade spokesman Patrycjusz Fudała has noted that at present, the causes of the blaze remain a mystery. (nh)

Source: IAR, TVN, parafiarodaki.pl