AMSTERDAM: A tragic start to the New Year struck Amsterdam when the historic Vondelkerk church was reduced to ruins in a major fire shortly after midnight.
The blaze, reported at about 12.45am, spread rapidly through the 154-year-old structure, leading authorities to declare the building beyond rescue. Parts of the roof and tower collapsed under intense heat, and dozens of nearby homes lost electricity.
Residents in the surrounding neighbourhood were safely evacuated to temporary shelters.
Vondelkerk, built in 1872, once served as a Roman Catholic church before being repurposed as an event space and small business venue. Its distinct neo-Gothic architecture made it one of Amsterdam’s cherished cultural landmarks near Vondelpark.
Fire crews battled severe conditions, including strong winds and heavy structural damage, making it impossible to access the church interior.
No casualties have been reported. Investigations are underway, with fireworks and New Year celebrations among possible causes.
