Feb 17, 2026, 2:24 p.mFeb 17, 2026, 2:24 p.m
A serious fire broke out in the city center of Naples on Tuesday, which also affected the historic Sannazaro theater on the central street Via Chiaia.
In this ore difficult stringiamoci with affetto e solidarity all persone che hanno dedicated energy, passione e vita al Teatro Sannazaro, a luogo storico di cultura, identità e spettacolo nel heart di #Napoli Tristemente colpito da un incendio nella night nel quartiere Chiaia… pic.twitter.com/MJSbL3BUKo
— Luigi Rispoli (@LuiRispoli) February 17, 2026
The flames spread quickly and damaged a large part of the building. The theater’s dome was completely destroyed. According to media reports, at least four residents suffered smoke inhalation and were taken to hospital as a precaution.
The fire was presumably caused by a short circuit.Image: Screenshot/X
Residents said that the air had been almost unbreathable since around 5 a.m. Some people had to leave their homes. It is suspected that a short circuit caused the fire. Arson is also not ruled out.
Important cultural site
The theater, which was built in 1847 and is largely made of wood, is considered an important cultural site in Naples and a traditional production center for theatrical art. Theater manager Lara Sansone, who runs the house with her husband Sasà Vanorio, burst into tears when she saw the extent of the damage.
The theater from the inside, in 2018.Image: imago stock&people
The Teatro Sannazaro is one of the most traditional theaters in Naples. It was named after the Renaissance poet Jacopo Sannazaro. Over the course of its history, it became an important center of Neapolitan theater and played an important role in the city’s cultural identity.
The Teatro Sannazaro stands for classical and modern Neapolitan theater, for comedies, musical pieces and the cultivation of regional acting. To this day it is considered a cultural symbol of Naples and an important part of the city’s traditional theater landscape. (sda/apa)