Córdoba Mosque-Cathedral Fire Quickly Contained

A fire broke out around 9 p.m. at the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Spain, originating near the Puerta de San José in the Chapel of Almanzor. Authorities believe the likely cause was a short circuit or battery malfunction in a mechanical floor-sweeping machine. Firefighters responded rapidly, deploying five engines and a crane to contain and extinguish the blaze, preventing damage on the scale of the 2019 Notre Dame fire. The incident prompted evacuations, with videos of the flames and smoke widely shared on social media. Officials have closed access to the site as investigations continue but have assured the public that the structure is safe. No injuries or immediate reports of extensive damage have been reported.