'Violent' fire destroys Paris's oldest covered food market

A fire has destroyed Paris's oldest covered food market, a popular street food venue named after red-clad orphans, authorities said on Monday.

Emergency services fought the fire, but the building was "ravaged by flames early this morning," according to the the mayor of the central Paris district, Ariel Weil.

The Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges in the Marais district has existed in the French capital since 1615.

It draws its name from the red outfits that orphans wore at a hospital near the market until 1772.

Food & Wine magazine ranked it fifth worldwide for street food this year, after other eating spots in London, Bangkok, the French city of Lyon and Mexico City.

"The market was completely destroyed" overnight from Sunday to Monday, Lieutenant Colonel Pierre de Bouvier told reporters.

"Nothing remains of the covered market," he said, adding that its metal structure had "partially collapsed" inside.

Mr Weil, said he was relieved the "violent" fire, which was first reported around 3am, was under control and would not spread further.

"No neighbouring buildings have been affected."

Authorities said the fire engulfed the 1,000 square metres occupied by the covered market..

Nine hoses, including two high-powered ones, were required to bring the blaze under control.

The market, which was listed as a historical monument in 1982, may be given a new life in a different part of Paris.

Authorities said temporary locations would be found for the businesses so their activities could continue.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire.

AFP/ABC