Historic building damaged by fire
Five hurt and 1,600 evacuated as blaze severely damages Le Corbusier's Marseille masterpiece
NEARLY 1,600 residents had to be evacuated from Le Corbusier's famous Cité Radieuse building in Marseille after fire broke out.
Classified as a historic monument, the building was severely damaged in the blaze which left five people hurt, including a 91 year old woman who was taken to hospital in a serious condition. Two firefighters were also injured as they fought the blaze, one on the shoulder and the other on the leg.
In all 160 firefighters and 40 units were involved in fighting the fire which broke out just after 22.00. It destroyed several flats although the full extent of the damage is not yet known.
Firefighters were still on scene this morning as they brought the blaze under control.
Designed by celebrated French architect Le Corbusier, the Cité Radieuse was built between 1945 and 1952 and was the first of a series of modernist housing developments to be built across Europe. Built on concrete stilts, it is recognised as one of his masterpeices and noted for its spacious two-floor apartments and rooftop terrace with views of the Mediterranean. It is sought-after as a trendy place to live.
Photo: Jetheriot
