If you've been to a concert or a match at the POPB for the older crowd, at the Accor Arena for the younger ones, or simply at Bercy for everyone, you've surely noticed that one side was much nicer than the other for queuing. Indeed, for the past few years, the area behind the concert hall, where the entrance to the pit happens, presents a sad face to all visitors. What's the issue? A partially abandoned lot, and a fountain that, while quite beautiful, is completely neglected. Luckily, this situation might soon change!
A Bit of a Sad Story
In 1988, during an inauguration with Jacques Chirac, then Mayor of Paris, this is where the story of a fountain with the most intriguing name begins: Canyoneaustrate (simply a blend of canyon, water, and layer, a pretty complete description of the creation). This masterpiece, commissioned by the City of Paris, was envisioned by the French painter and visual artist Gérard Singer.
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A monumental piece, a grand infinity pool 40 m long, one side of which features a sculpture representing a natural gorge, which unfortunately is deteriorating quite quickly after its launch. Cracks are appearing, followed by stains and litter. Eventually, the water is turned off, and the fountain is completely left at the mercy of graffiti artists, skateboarders, and other polluters.
A new beginning
However, it looks like it's about to experience a second youth. In fact, the group Paris Entertainment Company (PEC) — which manages notable venues like the Accor Arena, the Adidas Arena, and the Bataclan — has recently expanded its scope and received authorization to take charge of this section of the Bercy park at the end of 2025.
g>. And the priority is simple: to restore this spectacular fountain to its former glory by the end of the year..See this post on Instagram
The strata area will be placed under glass, without water, to preserve it, and will be illuminated, to make it more visible and showcased. Secondly, the park surrounding it will be transformed as well, to blend into this new space. This will include...by greening the space. In the long term, there will also be activities and gatherings planned.