Vibrant crowds have flooded Paris’ Pompidou Centre this weekend as art lovers seize their final chance to explore Europe’s premier modern and contemporary art institution before its doors shut for a five-year revamping. This weekend marked the last opportunity to immerse in the museum’s vast 2,000-piece permanent collection, with treasures ranging from Chagalls to Giacomettis set to migrate to various other Paris locations and French and international museums for safekeeping.
As one of the most ambitious closures of its nature, the extensive task of packing away the museum’s treasures is slated to commence on Monday. The iconic building, a brainchild of architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, will undergo an all-inclusive makeover, complete with a rehaul of technology, improved accessibility, energy efficiency, and the laborious removal of pervasive asbestos from ceilings and piping systems.
Upon its grand reopening, the cultural behemoth—a testament to France’s former President Georges Pompidou—aims to introduce a more multidisciplinary experience. This revamped vision includes novel exhibition spaces, dedicated areas for younger audiences, and an expanded library. Despite the closure, museum director Laurent Le Bon assures the public of abundant opportunities to engage with the Pompidou’s works during the renovation.
Additionally, a selection of works will be showcased in Paris’ Grand Palais, which itself has recently reemerged following a significant overhaul. The event hosted a diverse crowd, including French nationals and international tourists, taking advantage of the complimentary admission and a lively atmosphere enhanced by workshops, art demonstrations, and DJ sets.
The museum, which recorded over three million visitors last year, ranks third in Paris, following behind only the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay. While the Pompidou’s closure may disappoint some, the ongoing extensive renovation at the Louvre and the protracted 20-year closure of Berlin’s Pergamon Museum remind visitors of the larger scale of cultural revivals occurring across Europe’s artistic and historical landmarks.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/09/visitors-flock-to-paris-pompidou-centre-before-it-closes-for-renovations
