SOMETHING NEW IS SHOWING UP
"Paris is a celebration" wrote Hemingway, and today we celebrate innovation, change and renewal with the inauguration of the Temporary Grand Palais. For the first time ever, the legendary Grand Palais located near the Avenue des Champs-Élysées is closing its doors for renovation. A refurbishment that promises to be a major event in the history of the building, as it has never been closed to the public for so long since its creation in 1900.
Its closure - even if only temporary - inevitably causes a problem of space for the city of Paris. The Grand Palais usually hosts major artistic events of international renown: whether it be the emblematic Fashion Week, the FIAC, or Art Capital, it is the place to visit for cultural events. This is why, from February 2021, it will be replaced by the Temporary Grand Palais, a short-term building on the Champ de Mars, where all these art, fashion and sports events will now take place.
READY FOR THE OLYMPIC GAMES
Jean-Michel Wilmotte, the famous French urban planner and architect in charge of the construction project, wanted to make a strong impression. Indeed, the building is not only destined to replace one of the capital's most visited monuments - there are more than two million visitors a year! - but it will also be an essential site in the organisation of the Summer Olympic Games in 2024. For example, the Temporary Grand Palais will host some sporting competitions, such as the judo, wrestling and Paralympic table tennis events, thus placing the Grand Palais at the forefront of the international scene.
While waiting for the opening of the Games, do not hesitate to take a look at the programme during your next visit to Paris. The hotel le Tourville offers you the opportunity to stay close to the Temporary Grand Palais, in the heart of the 7th arrondissement. Overflowing with life and poetry, this 4-star hotel will be your refuge of tranquillity, just a few steps away from the festivities.
Photo credits: © Wilmotte & Associés Architectes