A massive fire has engulfed Hotel Kärnan in central Helsingborg, Sweden, causing significant damage to the historic building.

The hotel, currently under renovation and unoccupied, caught fire late Friday night.

Over 15 firefighting units are battling the blaze, which remains uncontrolled as of Saturday afternoon.

Authorities have evacuated 40 nearby residents and cordoned off the area, urging the public to stay away and keep windows closed due to heavy smoke.

Efforts to lift the roof with cranes are underway to better access the flames.

The building, with roots dating back to 1873, once housed the city’s first higher girls' school.

Locals have gathered near the site, expressing sadness and concern over the potential collapse of this iconic structure.