This morning, Christian Estrosi visited the Nice Observatory to attend the rehabilitation of the site’s library and to support the new fundraising appeal launched to finance the completion of the work.
The Mayor of Nice had an appointment this Thursday to discover the results of the pavilion library’s restoration, which dates back to 1887. But the projects don’t end there. The site’s director, Stéphane Mazevet, announced that new renovation projects are planned. For this purpose, a fundraising appeal is being launched, both to the general public and the scientific community.
These upcoming works will concern the entire facade of the Henri Chrétien pavilion, where the paint has faded in places. The ornaments, as well as the mosaic frieze, are also very damaged: “The small tiles that make it up are falling off little by little,” explains Stéphane Mazevet. The frieze is already damaged by nearly 60%.
To this are added the two mascarons located just below, allegories of the sun and the moon, known as “the day” and “the night”. After 140 years of existence, the site has aged significantly, and a rejuvenation is now indispensable.
The importance of the Observatory’s renovations
These renovations are not just aesthetic; they are essential for the work of astrophysics researchers. The project, estimated at a little less than 500,000 euros, is supported by Christian Estrosi, who echoes the appeal: “This fundraising call is very important. A part of human history has found shelter here, just as it is also our future being decided.” Preserving this site is therefore crucial to allow researchers to continue their work.
All the knowledge stored in the old library needed protection to ensure the transmission of research to future generations. This is also one of the major challenges of this renovation: to preserve and pass on knowledge.
This transmission is now embodied in the thesis defenses of young researchers. It is on the freshly renovated upper floor of the library that tomorrow’s work will be shared. Students will be able to achieve the culmination of a doctorate degree in a venue classified as a national historic monument. The restoration was indispensable for the site to continue successfully conducting its precious space missions and research for science.
Restoring a better image to the site
“The first time I came to the Observatory, I lamented that a place bringing together such quality scientists was set up in a building in such poor condition,” regrets the director. Today, it is therefore a great pride for the researchers to come and work here.
The research team at the site includes many international scientists. With a complete renovation, the site’s appeal is enhanced. “The works are absolutely extraordinary,” rejoices Patrick Michel, astrophysicist and research director at CNRS. “This has a real international echo. We receive numerous requests from foreign partners wishing to come and work here, and now that the site is renovated, it is even more welcoming.“
The pavilion will also become a source of pride for the people of Nice, who will be able to admire it from their windows. “The paint will be redone, a cream white and green shutters, exactly as Garnier imagined it.” reports the director of the Observatory, Stéphane Mazevet.
500,000 euros to fund
This renovation carries a cost, and the researchers are well aware of it. The 140-year-old building is crumbling. The director of the Observatory admitted surprise at the number of small donors in previous appeals. “I hope this continues because every donation counts. It is these small sums that, once accumulated, help us achieve our goals.“
The Heritage Foundation has also contributed 250,000 euros since the beginning of the work. The Dassault family, a major contributor, has also lent its support. The State and the metropolis are also participating, a testament to the crucial nature of this project.
It is possible to donate to aid the renewal of the Observatory by clicking here.
