On this Monday, November 21, Christian Estrosi held a press conference in the heart of the Cimiez Arenas. A renaissance project was presented that concerns the entire Cimiez site, aiming to highlight this historic site of Nice.
This project is particularly important for Christian Estrosi. The ambition is to restore prestige to this archaeological site by reintroducing theater to the center of the Roman amphitheater. The project extends more broadly over the entire Cimiez site to bring changes to this iconic location in Nice. The project will be divided into three main phases:
1. Restoration of heritage spaces
The main structures targeted are the church, the cemetery, the amphitheater, and the archaeological site. Furthermore, the museography of the Matisse Museum will be redesigned to modernize the technical installations at the venue.
New archaeological excavations are also planned, particularly on sites that remain unexplored to this day. To achieve this, a steering committee will be established from January to develop a comprehensive intervention plan for the next four years. It will include the city services, the state services, and the various users.
2. Enhancement of the Roman amphitheater
This aspect revolves around two dossiers currently under study. The first concerns the restoration of the church to reintegrate three works by Louis Bréa. One of them is temporarily exhibited at the Masséna Museum, while the other two are undergoing restoration.
Moreover, the protection and enhancement of the Roman amphitheater are essential in this project. The plan is to transform the location into a genuine stage for live performances, a task entrusted to the TNN (National Theater of Nice). There is a goal to produce an international festival dedicated to ancient tragedy. Muriel Mayette-Holtz is making it a central element of her candidacy for the position of director of the TNN.
3. An experiment conducted by the TNN
This experiment, expected to be carried out by summer 2023, is based on three concepts.
- Prohibition of free access to the amphitheater. This aims to curb the degradation of the site due to the passage of numerous visitors, as well as the disorderly usage following shows, concerts, and other events.
- Reconsideration of site access and management. Thanks to a planned and protective operation, as well as controlled and unique destination management for the entire site.
- Total reinvention of the site. By this summer, the planned experiment will allow for a reassessment of the site. This includes possibly relocating the stage, elevating bleacher seating, and installing sound and lighting equipment.
The entire project will be developed in close collaboration with the state services, particularly those responsible for archaeology and historical monuments. It is, therefore, a major, highly ambitious project for the city of Nice. The objective is clearly defined as a revitalization of the cultural heritage of the city, with the Cimiez site being an integral part of the landscape of Nice.
