History of Centre Pompidou
History of Centre Pompidou
Embark on a captivating journey through the rich history of Centre Pompidou with our concise timeline and comprehensive overview.
Enhance your visit with our thoughtfully selected premier tickets, ensuring a seamless exploration of this distinctive art museum.
History of Centre Pompidou: Chronological Timeline
1960s
The idea of a cultural center housing an art museum and library under one roof emerges in France, driven by a growing recognition of the importance of modern and contemporary art and the need for a central hub for cultural activities.
1962
André Malraux, France’s first Minister of Cultural Affairs, proposes a plan to create a national center for art and culture in the Les Halles district, a former central market in Paris.
1968
President Charles De Gaulle rejects the Les Halles location, favoring the Plateau Beaubourg, a neighborhood in the 4th arrondissement, due to its strategic position and potential for urban renewal.
1969
Georges Pompidou, the newly elected President of France, takes over the project and appoints a commission to oversee its development.
1970-1971
Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, two young and innovative architects, are selected to design the Centre Pompidou. Their groundbreaking concept emphasizes the exposure of structural elements and the integration of mechanical and technical systems into the architectural design.
1971-1973
Construction work begins. The project faces initial skepticism and criticism from some who perceive it as an architectural aberration. However, Pompidou’s strong support and the architects’ unwavering vision ensure the project’s continuation.
1974
President Georges Pompidou dies, and Valéry Giscard d’Estaing takes over the project.
1974-1977
Construction of the Centre Pompidou commences, marked by technological advancements and innovative techniques. The building’s distinctive exterior, with brightly colored pipes and escalators, becomes an iconic landmark of Paris.
January 31, 1977
The Centre Pompidou, officially named the Centre national d’art et de culture Georges-Pompidou, opens to the public. The grand opening is a major cultural event, attracting worldwide attention and sparking a renewed appreciation for modern and contemporary art.
1980s & 1990s
The exhibition expands over the years with new pieces and is becoming increasingly popular. Fans of modern and contemporary art from all over the world visit the museum.
1997
Centre Pompidou undergoes a major renovation until 1999. The renovation updates the building’s facilities and technology, and it also improves accessibility for people with disabilities.
2000
Centre Pompidou continues to expand its collection and programming, attracting more and more visitors from around the world.
2011
Centre Pompidou opens the Bourse de Commerce, a new contemporary art museum located in the former Bourse de Commerce building in the Les Halles district.
2019
Centre Pompidou undertakes a further round of renovations until 2021. This renovation focuses on improving the building’s energy efficiency and sustainability.
Today
Originally slated for September 2023, the closure of Centre Pompidou for renovation has been rescheduled to occur after the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024.
Near future
Centre Pompidou is scheduled to undergo a significant renovation, resulting in a closure to the public for a period of five years. The renovation is set to commence in autumn 2024 and is expected to continue until 2030. The progressive closure of visitor spaces will begin in autumn 2024, with the complete closure of the building anticipated in the summer of 2025. Upon completion, the Centre Pompidou is expected to reopen with a revitalized and expanded space, ready to continue its mission of promoting modern and contemporary art and culture.
History of Centre Pompidou: Summary
Commence an engaging exploration of Centre Pompidou’s fascinating history through our in-depth overview. Delve into each intricately presented segment, taking a chronological journey to unveil the origins, transformations, and profound cultural significance of this iconic structure.
Here’s a periodic overview of the captivating history of Centre Pompidou.
Centre Pompidou Tickets & Tours
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