London model set ablaze to mark Great Fire anniversary

A nearly 400-foot-long model was set on fire in London during a retelling of the story of the Great Fire of London. (AP)

LONDON – A large wooden model of 17th-century London was set ablaze to mark the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London that ripped through the city in 1666.

The unusual 390-foot-long model was set on fire Sunday night on the River Thames, producing spectacular flames against the backdrop of the city skyline.

The burning marked the finale of a festival marking the epic four-day fire that destroyed much of the walled city in 1666. About 13,000 homes and businesses were destroyed in the calamity.

The event was part of a collaboration between American artist David Best and Artichoke, which organized a six-day retelling of the story of the Great Fire that included art installations, performances, guided tours and lectures.