Fire destroys Manège Militaire, Québec

Image from caeciliustim's Flickr photostream.

A considerable portion of Québec City's grand old Manège Militaire, built in 1884, is no more.  Home of the Voltigeurs de Québec (established in 1862—the country's oldest French infantry regiment), it was devoured by flames and collapsed Friday night following an explosion.  The facility was apparently under renovation, and the authorities do not suspect foul play.

The armory was also home to the regimental museum and had been scheduled to host events celebrating the 400th anniversary of Québec City.  Its destruction is a terrible blow to Canadian military heritage.

More details from CanWest News Service here.  There are also images of the aftermath from Tanja Schiemann's Flickr photostream.