forced the evacuation of the area on Friday night. The blaze, reported shortly after 9 p.m., has since been extinguished, according to the city’s mayor.

The fire began in the Patio de los Naranjos, near the Puerta de San José, prompting the evacuation of the area around Magistral González Francés Street so that fire crews could carry out their work. Five fire engines, a crane, and National Police officers were deployed, with all access to the monument remaining closed during the operation. Flames and plumes of smoke, visible from various parts of the city, drew numerous residents, some of whom shared videos of the incident on social media. The Puerta de San José—built in the 10th century and restored in 2017—forms part of this UNESCO World Heritage site, an iconic blend of Islamic art and Christian architecture following its conversion into a cathedral in 1236. (Euronews)