Jakarta, ThedailyID — Protests over the rising cost of living turned violent across France on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Authorities estimated that around 550,000 people joined demonstrations nationwide.
In Limoges, a fire severely damaged the city hall, a historic building more than 140 years old. Videos circulating online showed its pointed tower collapsing as flames engulfed the roof.
According to the Haute-Vienne Prefecture, masked individuals broke into the building at around 6 p.m. and set it on fire. Firefighters quickly arrived in large numbers to tackle the blaze.
The prefecture described the city hall as a cultural heritage site and an iconic local landmark. Officials also reported looting at several shops near Rue Jean Jaurès.
Earlier that afternoon, around 2,000 people gathered in the Casseaux area of eastern Limoges. The prefecture said more than 500 of them deliberately instigated unrest, with some throwing objects at security forces.
Four police officers suffered serious injuries, while four police vehicles were destroyed. Protesters later blocked the A20 motorway before heading toward the city center.
Police arrested 19 people in the area, and an investigation remains underway. Construction of Limoges City Hall began in 1879, and officials inaugurated the building on July 14, 1883.
Limoges Mayor Guillaume Guérin condemned the violence while acknowledging the public’s right to demonstrate. He said no grievance could justify damaging public property.
Meanwhile, around 110,000 people reportedly demonstrated in Paris. Police fired tear gas and used water cannons to disperse crowds as looting spread in parts of the capital.
Euronews journalists also faced attacks from looters and rioters near Place de la République while covering the demonstrations. However, protests in other areas, including Boulevard de Clichy and Place de Clichy, remained peaceful.
