Fire Destroys 1,200-Year-Old Buddhist Temple on Itsukushima Island
A fire destroyed Reikado Hall, a historic Buddhist temple on Itsukushima island near Hiroshima, on Wednesday. The blaze began at the temple's long-burning flame and spread through the structure despite efforts by firefighters and a helicopter.
opindia.comA fire destroyed Reikado Hall, a Buddhist temple on Itsukushima island near Hiroshima, on Wednesday. The blaze started at the temple's long-burning flame and spread through the wooden structure. Video footage showed the 1,200-year-old building engulfed in flames.
Dozens of firefighters and a helicopter responded to the fire. Emergency crews were unable to save the building. The temple was reduced to a charred shell after the fire.
The flame at Reikado Hall had reportedly burned continuously since 806 AD. It is understood to have inspired the Flame of Peace at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The temple had previously suffered fire damage in 2005.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- Wednesday
Fire destroyed Reikado Hall on Itsukushima island near Hiroshima.
1 sourceGB News - 2005
Previous fire caused significant damage to the temple.
1 sourceGB News - 806 AD
Monk lit the flame that burned at the temple until Wednesday.
1 sourceGB News
Potential Impact
- 01
The temple structure was completely destroyed.
- 02
A historic religious site on the World Heritage list was lost.
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