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Is this controversial Parisian museum soon to be listed as a historic monument?

undefined undefined 14 septembre 2025 undefined 08h30

The Editor

© OSTILL is Franck Camhi / Shutterstock

After Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Cœur, the Bourse de commerce, and the Louvre Museum, another institution could soon receive the honorable title of Historical Monument. However, this time, the decision might spark a bit of debate. Let us explain.

In 1977, architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers unveiled a new building right in the heart of Paris: the Centre Pompidou. From the moment it opened, it sparked intense criticism because of its ultra-modern and industrial facade. However, less than 50 years after its opening, this temple of contemporary art could very well be established among the greatest monuments of the capital, starting as soon as next year.


An Amazing Title

As it prepares to close its doors in just a few days for the next 5 years, big news is once again set to shake up the future of the Centre Pompidou, located right in the heart of the 4th district. Indeed, according to its director Laurent Le Bon, the Ministry of Culture has reportedly given its approval for the mu.is registered as a Historic Monument. An extremely rare event for a building less than 50 years old, with architectural styles that are still alive. It's all the more ironic knowing that the two men behind the project envisioned Beaubourg as a "counter-monument". Despite this desire to shock and be nonconformist, the institution has gradually become an iconic symbol of the capital.


A Complete Metamorphosis

Just a reminder, by the end of the year, we will have to say goodbye to about 2,000 works of art that are permanently on display in the museum, all transported in semi-trailers to move to reserves, or to other institutions in the capital, in France, and even around the world, like in Brussels, Malaga, or Shanghai. This is an already colossal operation in itself, which has required, for example, to dismantle some glass walls to get the monumental works of Anselm Kiefer out.

Starting from September 22, the entire monument will be off-limits as we embark on a massive transformation of the site. Energy efficiency upgrades, renewing the fire safety system, façade renovations, and addressing asbestos issues are all on the agenda to enhance the comfort and safety of visitors and create new spaces, all in a eco-friendly approach.