“The renovation of this observatory is at the heart of the heritage of the city of Nice. We are very appreciative of Total’s commitment,” stated Eric Ciotti, first deputy and representative of the deputy mayor, during the ceremony.
In 2005, the Total Group signed a three-year sponsorship agreement from 2006-2008 with the Heritage Foundation. This financial support of 220,000 euros is intended for the renovation of 90% of the site. “A company like ours is also expected to contribute outside its usual domain. The important thing is to be attentive to the regions that host us,” admits Guy Sallavuard from the Total Foundation.
Initial work had already been carried out thanks to the 2000-2006 State Region Planning Contract, but restoration of several buildings is still necessary to allow full public access to the site. “I am delighted that this observatory is being renovated to welcome more visitors. We are very happy to contribute to this phase of work,” continues G. Sallavuard.
Soon, a true city of science
Today, the Côte d’Azur Observatory consists of four research units and employs 450 people, including 150 researchers, and the site is open to visitors for two half-days a week. This is why it was important to carry out these restoration works on various buildings. They will begin in September and last for three months. This agreement involves the restoration of several buildings: the Schaumasse Dome will be completely repaired, the observatory’s perimeter wall from the 19th century, partially collapsed, will be rebuilt over three kilometers, and the metal shutters of the Grand Meridian replaced…
Edouard de Royère, president of the Heritage Foundation, is pleased with this accomplishment. He remarked, “None of this would have been possible without the generosity of the Total company. It is a great pride to be their partner.”
