CAPTION ONLY: 2-CENTURY-OLD OPERA HOUSE GOES UP IN SMOKE

Firefighters gather in front of the majestic Venice opera house, La Fenice, after fire swept through the building, destroying the 204-year-old jewel, one of Italy's greatest artistic institutions. La Fenice, which translates to "the phoenix," was first opened in 1792. It was recently closed for repairs and was to reopen in March with a performance of "Don Giovanni." "Let's hope this bird rises again from the ashes," said tenor Luciano Pavarotti. There were no reports of injuries. The fire's cause is under investigation.