A convention between Christian Estrosi, president of the Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur and the region, Philippe Pradal, mayor of Nice, and Jean-Louis Marques, departmental delegate of the Heritage Foundation, will allow for the complete restoration of the Saint-Pons Abbey Church.
This comprehensive renovation program aims to breathe new life into this architecture of Turin inspiration, which has been threatened by severe deterioration and has been closed to the public since 1999. The exterior work involves the facades, the framework, and the roofing.
Inside, the focus will be on restoring the woodwork and furniture, while ensuring the conservation of the church’s art pieces.
The last renovation of this monument, an essential part of Nice’s heritage, dates back to 1725. At that time, it was regarded as one of the most beautiful baroque churches in the city. The goal of these renovations is, therefore, to bring it back to the forefront.
Once the work is completed, Saint-Pons will be able to host concerts by the Nice Philharmonic Orchestra or private companies throughout the year. The church may also host debates, conferences, or symposiums.
The role of the foundation
The Heritage Foundation works to promote the preservation and enhancement of the heritage in the Alpes-Maritimes. Ranging from rural mountain architecture, perched villages built to ward off Saracen invasions, numerous chapels at the entrances of hamlets to protect against epidemics, and maritime architecture with a high density of ports and unique fishermen’s houses, all this heritage enriches the local memory.
The mission of this foundation is to safeguard it by organizing public/private partnerships, establishing agreements with regions, departments, municipalities, local associations, and sponsors, who, of course, give substantial support to the projects.
Thibault Bourru
