Arson suspected in Nantes cathedral blaze

A fire in the 15-century cathedral in the western French city of Nantes blew out stained glass windows and destroyed the grand organ on Saturday (July 18),

with officials suspecting arson.

The fire began in the early hours of the morning, engulfing the inside in massive flames.

Dozens of firemen worked to bring it under control- a job which took several hours.

The city's mayor Johanna Rolland said the cathedral is an important symbol of Nantes.

"What overcomes us is the emotion, what overcomes us is the sadness, because this place is not only important and emblematic for Nantes' Catholics - it's important for all Nantes residents. It's part of our history, there's a very emotional link to it.

Prosecutor Pierre Sennes told reporters three fires had been started at the site and authorities were treating the incident as a criminal act.

Officials said an investigation had been opened.