Around 200 firefighters were deployed to tackle the blaze at the remote and difficult-to-access Kehlsteinhaus residence, located at an altitude of 1,834 metres (6,000 feet). Police spokeswoman Lisa Maier said firefighters struggled to reach the site due to its location and had to use “heavy breathing apparatus.” The building was still engulfed in flames into the early hours of Saturday.

Authorities confirmed that no one was injured in the fire and that firefighters found no people inside the building. The fire alarm was triggered at around 9:50 p.m. (1950 GMT) on Friday by a smoke detector, prompting the emergency response.

German media reported that investigators suspected the fire was the result of arson. Police have not yet released a potential motive and are continuing their investigation. A news conference is planned for later Saturday.

German tabloid Bild reported that the authorities arrested a motorcyclist they encountered on their way to the scene.

The Eagle’s Nest, built between 1937 and 1938, was intended as a monument to Hitler’s rule, though he rarely visited the site. It survived World War II undamaged and has since hosted an exhibition on Nazi history and a restaurant. The site’s official website describes it as “a cautionary reminder of the abysses of the inhumane Nazi dictatorship.”

The fire at the Eagle’s Nest has drawn attention due to its symbolic connection to the Nazi regime, which was responsible for the deaths of millions of Jews, Roma, LGBTQ people, and Communists.

Police have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire but have stated that a criminal investigation is underway.