The historic Parroquia Mayor de Sancti Spíritus, regarded as the oldest church in Cuba, was the scene this Wednesday of a small fire that caused alarm but resulted in no structural damage or casualties.
According to witnesses, a thick cloud of black smoke began to emanate from the temple shortly after noon, prompting several people to immediately alert the firefighters, reported seminarian Nestor Luis.
The images and videos circulated on social media showed the extent of the smoke, raising fears of the worst for the iconic 17th-century building.
According to preliminary reports, the fire originated in the inner courtyard of the sacristy, due to the explosion of newly installed lithium batteries in a power plant.
The failure may have been caused by improper handling of the breaker, combined with the frequent power interruptions affecting the city.
The fire affected cables and components of the plant, generating smoke that quickly spread through the main hall of the temple.
Although no flames were detected in the main area, the situation caused great distress among those present and the neighbors who gathered nearby.
The swift intervention of the firefighters, along with the efforts of the parish staff, allowed them to extinguish the fire before it spread. No significant damage was reported to the structure or the religious relics.
"La Mayor remains standing, majestic and imposing, as a spiritual and heritage symbol of Sancti Spíritus," stated a parishioner to this outlet, visibly relieved by the outcome.
The Major Parish, located in the heart of the historic center of Sancti Spíritus, is an architectural and religious icon that dates back to the 17th century.
Its preservation is a priority for the community, which fears that incidents like this put at risk a heritage that has survived centuries of history, hurricanes, and crises.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fire in the Main Parish of Sancti Spíritus
What caused the fire in the Main Parish of Sancti Spíritus?
The fire originated in the internal courtyard of the sacristy due to the explosion of lithium batteries recently installed in a power plant. The explosion was triggered by improper handling of the circuit breaker combined with the frequent power outages affecting the city.
Was there structural damage to the Major Parish of Sancti Spíritus?
No significant structural damage was reported in the Major Parish of Sancti Spíritus, despite the initial fire. The quick response of the firefighters and parish staff prevented the flames from spreading and causing greater damage.
What is the significance of the Major Parish of Sancti Spíritus in Cuba?
The Major Parish Church of Sancti Spíritus is regarded as the oldest church in Cuba and an architectural and religious icon of the 17th century. Its preservation is a priority for the community, which fears that incidents like this could jeopardize a heritage that has survived centuries of history, hurricanes, and crises.
How does the energy crisis in Cuba affect the occurrence of fires?
The energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by frequent blackouts and issues in the electrical system, increases the risk of fires. Electrical interruptions, combined with the use of inadequate equipment and a lack of maintenance, have been contributing factors in several recent fires in the country.
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