Blaze engulfs Hitler’s ‘Eagle’s Nest’ mountain retreat in Bavaria
German police have detained a suspect after a fire engulfed Adolf Hitler’s former mountain retreat, the Eagle’s Nest, in Bavaria.
Firefighters deployed to the remote Kehlsteinhaus on the peak of Obersalzberg faced a difficult battle against the flames.
The building, at an altitude of 1,834 metres, was only accessible with heavy breathing apparatus, making the operation highly challenging.
Police spokesperson Lisa Maier said the fire was so intense that firefighters saw flames rising high into the air as they approached.
Authorities were alerted on Friday evening when a smoke detector triggered a fire alarm at about 9.50pm (1950 GMT).
Arrest and investigation
Police have taken a suspicious person into temporary custody, with German tabloid Bild reporting that a motorcyclist was arrested on the way to the scene.
A suspicious person was taken into temporary custody.
German media reported that investigators suspected the fire was the result of arson, though no official reason has been given.
Police have blocked access to the road leading to the retreat and are holding a news conference later on Saturday.
Historic site
Built between 1937 and 1938, the Eagle’s Nest forms part of the toxic legacy of Hitler’s Third Reich.
The complex was designed to serve as a monument to Hitler’s rule, although the dictator rarely visited.
It survived World War II undamaged and has hosted an exhibition recounting its Nazi history and a restaurant since 1952.
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