The roof of the National High School of Applied Arts in Tryavna, a cultural landmark with almost a century of history, was destroyed in a fire early this morning. The blaze broke out around 3 a.m. and spread rapidly due to the building's wooden beam construction.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported. According to the school's administration, all boarding students - who were there for academic practice during the holidays - were safely evacuated and will be sent home.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest it may have been caused by a short circuit.

The mayor of Tryavna, Dencho Minev, described the damage as extensive and noted that significant financial resources will be needed for reconstruction. In response to the incident, Culture Minister Marian Bachev has dispatched Deputy Minister Georgi Sultanov and Eliyanka Mihailova, Director of the Performing Arts and Art Education Directorate, to assess the situation on the ground and coordinate immediate recovery efforts.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Culture, the restoration of the damaged part of the building and its equipment is a top priority. The Ministry has pledged to act swiftly to ensure that educational activities at the National School of Applied Arts can resume as soon as possible.