An investigation has been launched following a fire in Quebec City that destroyed most of a historic military armoury.

The armoury, built in 1884, broke out in flames at about 9:30 p.m. on Friday evening.

The Dept. of National Defence's Maj. Marc Rancourt told CTV Newsnet on Saturday that a citizen reported the fire.

The fire spread quickly, destroying about 80 per cent of the structure.

Several witnesses reported hearing an explosion at the site after the armoury had already become engulfed in flames, said police spokesman Francois Bouchard.

However, military officials claim there were no explosives in the building.

Nobody was injured in the incident.

The armoury had provided a home to Les Voltigeurs, a Canadian Forces reserve unit and Canada's oldest francophone infantry unit.

In addition, it has housed a museum containing First and Second World War memorabilia, along with artifacts of the Riel Rebellion.

The building also contained Canada's largest suspended wood ceiling.

Some articles were reportedly rescued, and military officials hope some of the building can be saved.

The armoury had been scheduled to host many events to mark Quebec City's 400th anniversary and had been undergoing renovations.

"As of this time, we're still investigating the options to hold those activities in and around the armouries," said Rancourt.

Rancourt said he could "confirm" that the fire was not "an act of vandalism."

With files from The Canadian Press