Church in Amsterdam destroyed by fire on New Year's Eve

A large number of homes in the vicinity of the church were evacuated. Around 90 households were temporarily without power. The cause of the fire, which broke out shortly after midnight, is not yet known. Strong winds fanned the flames and caused sparks to fly.

Cause of fire still unknown

The Netherlands celebrated the last turn of the year when firecrackers and rockets were allowed. People bought far more legal and illegal fireworks than in previous years. There were a number of fires. It is still unclear whether the fire in the church was related to fireworks.

The fire department fought the flames with a large contingent of firefighters from other cities. The navy supported the fire-fighting efforts with the largest aerial work platform in the Netherlands, which can be raised 60 meters into the air. A structural engineer determined in the morning that the walls of the church would remain standing and that there was no further danger of collapse, according to the authorities.

Mayor laments "terrible fire"

"It is a very violent and terrible fire in this monumental church," said Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema, according to media reports. "Our first concern and priority is now the welfare and homes of the immediate residents."

The Vondelkirche was built in 1872 and used as a Roman Catholic church until 1977. Most recently, the neo-Gothic basilica was used for other purposes and for special events such as concerts. A fire destroyed the church's original tower in 1904.