By Necva Tastan Sevinc
ISTANBUL (AA)—A fire that erupted early Tuesday in central Naples, Italy, completely destroyed the historic Sannazaro Theater, forcing dozens of residents to evacuate, authorities said.
Flames engulfed the landmark venue on Via Chiaia at around 6.05 am local time (0405GMT), according to Naples provincial fire commander Giuseppe Paduano, who confirmed that “the theater is completely destroyed” after hours of firefighting operations.
The blaze caused the theater’s dome to collapse and damaged adjacent buildings, the ANSA news agency reported.
About 60 residents were evacuated, with eight treated for smoke inhalation and four hospitalized, officials said.
Twenty-five apartments were cleared, including 12 that sustained serious damage, while electricity in the area was temporarily shut off for safety.
Two firefighters were slightly injured during extinguishing efforts following a structural collapse. Some sections of the site remain inaccessible as crews continue safety assessments.
Authorities said it is still unclear whether the fire started inside the theater or in a nearby apartment and whether the alarm system was activated. Paduano stressed that “it’s still too early to determine” the cause.
Naples prosecutors have opened a case against unknown persons on suspicion of negligent arson.
Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi described the destruction as a major cultural loss.
He added authorities would “do everything” to restore the venue so it can return to its traditional role.