Firefighters battle blaze at London’s historic Somerset House

Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters were deployed to a fire at Somerset House in central London on Saturday, with clouds of black smoke visible across the city's skyline.

"Crews are tackling flames located in part of the building's roof," the London Fire Brigade said in a statement, adding that the cause of the blaze is not yet known.

Somerset House, located on the banks of the River Thames, was once a royal palace and is now an arts, cultural and entertainment centre.

The Courtauld Gallery, home to one of the world’s great art collections, is located in the building's North Wing.

The Somerset House site dates back to 1547.

Firefighters stand following a fire at Somerset House in London, Britain August 17, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS