Italy: Huge fire destroys Naples’ historic Sannazaro theatre

A massive fire has destroyed the historic Sannazaro theatre in central Naples on February 17. 

The prefect's office said around 60 people were evacuated from their homes as the fire spread to nearby buildings, Caliber.Az reports, citing Italian media.

Eight people suffered smoke inhalation, with four taken to the hospital for treatment.

"The damage is extensive; unfortunately, the theatre is completely devastated," Province of Naples Fire Brigade Commander Giuseppe Paduano told reporters.

When asked what remained of the theatre, he replied: "not much. There are still some small fires inside that we'll put out soon. It's still too early to determine the cause. Let's put out the fire first and then assess it."

"Firefighters are investigating to find out the cause. They believe it was accidental, but it's still too early to determine the cause because they are still putting out fires in an apartment," said Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi after arriving at the scene.

"The theatre has been completely destroyed. They tell us only the external structure remains. This morning I spoke to (Culture) Minister (Alessandro) Giuli, who called me, and together we decided that the (central) government will be involved (in the reconstruction)," Manfredi added, noting that he had also spoken to Campania Governor Roberto Fico. "We will work together to give the theatre back to the city."

By Aghakazim Guliyev