Paris: Paris's renowned Pompidou Centre, home to one of the world's largest modern art collections, has shut its doors to visitors for a significant five-year renovation project. The closure marks the beginning of an extensive overhaul estimated to cost nearly half a billion euros, leaving the iconic institution's floors empty, exhibition rooms dark, and its famous escalators closed. On the day of its closure, visitors expressed sadness, while local shopkeepers voiced concerns over the impact on their businesses.
According to France24.com, the Pompidou Centre is a vital part of Paris's cultural landscape, attracting millions of visitors annually who are drawn to both its vast art collections and its unique architectural design, featuring exposed ventilation and escalators. Originally designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers and named after former president Georges Pompidou, the centre opened in 1977. The upcoming renovations aim to modernize the facility significantly.
The Pompidou Centre remained open until 11 pm with free entry on its closing day and is set to host a musical and artistic show from October 22-25 to coincide with a Paris contemporary art week. The closure is anticipated to affect local businesses, as many shops and restaurants depend on the landmark to attract customers. Alexandre Mahfouz, manager of a nearby gallery and president of the neighborhood's business owners collective, expressed concern about the area's future.
The state of Paris's cultural attractions has raised alarm recently, with issues such as water damage and poor maintenance coming to light. President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to revamp the Louvre, the world's most-visited museum, with a multi-year renovation plan estimated to cost up to 800 million euros. The Pompidou Centre's renovations will address asbestos removal, accessibility improvements, security upgrades, and a complete interior redesign. The project also includes plans for improved climate protection, aiming to reduce energy bills by 40 percent.
Laurent Le Bon, the centre's president, stated that while the exterior framework will remain, significant changes will occur from the basement to the top floor. A new public terrace on the seventh floor will offer stunning views of Paris, and the total renovation cost is estimated at 460 million euros. The French state will finance 280 million euros, with an additional 100 million euros already secured. Saudi Arabia has contributed 50 million euros, leaving 80 million euros to be raised over the next five years.