2-913-731 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Ruins at Varna, after the recent fire, 1854. Crimean War. 'Varna, which is one of the dirtiest labyrinths of modern times, was very nearly destroyed by the recent fire. As there was a fresh breeze blowing, the whole street of the Bazaar was soon in a blaze. Adjoining this street there are, unfortunately, three large magazines, filled with powder and shells, &c., and the danger of an explosion was imminent...large bodies of troops were engaged in pulling down houses to cut off the progress of the fire...The streets were strewed in every direction with Turkish linen, bales of tobacco, cigars in thousands, pickles, brandy and wine-cases, preserved meats, bottles of beer...money-chests; and, worst of all, large casks of spirits, with the contents of which many a man's canteen was speedily filled. The poor Turks fled away as fast as they could, with what goods they were able to save'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854.