Huge fire engulfs historic 'Eagle's Nest' building in Obersalzberg near Berchtesgaden

A major fire broke out at the famous 'Eagle's Nest' building located in the Obersalzberg area of Berchtesgaden in Bavaria, and fire crews continued working to control the blaze amid logistical difficulties caused by the building's high-mountain location.

Authorities said the building sits at an altitude of 1,834 meters and was completed in 1938 as part of an area designated for Nazi leadership. Since 1952 it has been used as a mountain inn that includes an exhibition on its history. At the time it was known as the "Tea House," designed to receive diplomats, foreign guests and political representation away from the public eye, and used by those close to the Nazi leadership for rest and private celebrations.

The South Upper Bavaria police said a suspect was temporarily detained in the early hours of Saturday and that investigations are underway to determine the person's connection to the fire. The Traunstein criminal police are handling the case.

Rescue teams faced difficulties reaching the site due to the mountain terrain, and entry required heavy smoke-protection equipment, according to reports. Available information indicated the building was empty when the fire started, and police do not expect any injuries.

The Berchtesgaden mountain tourism association said the 'Eagle's Nest' had been scheduled to remain open to visitors until 8 November before the fire, while authorities continue investigating the cause of the incident and securing the site.