The flagship projects for summer 2025

A masterpiece of the Radiant Gothic style, the Sainte-Chapelle is gradually regaining all its splendour thanks to the meticulous restoration of its stained glass windows.

In 2022-2023, the first phase of work was carried out on the two levels of the porch. Since January 2025, work has continued on the Ezekiel bay, under the direction of architect Christophe Bottineau.

Located between the apse and the south façade, this bay is one of the last in the choir not to have been restored recently. Its stained glass windows show various levels of deterioration, with numerous deposits on the glass and lead, and breakage.

The aim of the work is to safeguard the original medieval features, while preserving or restoring the significance of the "Great Restoration" work carried out in the 19th century.

The stained glass windows are being restored in the workshop. The nearby ashlar facings and sculptures also need to be restored (decontamination, cleaning and replacement of stones in poor condition).

The operation will be completed in January 2026, and will help to perpetuate the soul of this unique monument, a jewel of the Capetian monarchy.

One of the most spectacular features of the Saint-Cloud estate is growing in stature: the Grande Cascade, a monumental ensemble with a water feature, sculpted rockwork and perspective effects stretching over 200 metres in length and 20 metres in height.

Commissioned by Monsieur, Louis XIV's brother, the Grande Cascade was created by Antoine Le Pautre between 1664 and 1665, then modified by Jules Hardouin-Mansart between 1697 and 1700.

Set in the heart of the 460-hectare estate, this hydraulic masterpiece, dedicated to the pleasures of the party, offers a unique spectacle. But it is also exposed to ongoing structural problems and deterioration.

In 2020, the Centre des monuments nationaux launched a major restoration programme to tackle these problems.

The work, which began in 2023, aims to stabilise the structures, restore damaged materials and introduce a sustainable water management system. In particular, the work will involve repairing the masonry, waterproofing and sculptures, as well as restoring the hydraulic system.

This multi-phase project is a technical and aesthetic feat. It will continue until 2027 under the direction of architect Michel Trubert, to restore all the magic of a masterpiece designed to amaze.

In Bourges, the distinctive silhouette of the Tour de la Chaussée, on the western facade of the Palais Jacques Cœur, is also the subject of an ambitious restoration project.

A remarkable example of a medieval civil residence, the Palais Jacques Cœur incorporates older remains, including a keep built on the Gallo-Roman enclosure.

Led by architect Rémi Fromont until the summer of 2026, the works are designed to meet a number of objectives: protect the tower from seepage, restore the external facings and harmonise the various successive interventions.

In particular, the work will focus on the roofing, framework, rainwater drains, joinery and sculpted decorations.

The interior of the tower has not been forgotten either: the damaged frames and floors will be repaired, and the broken steps of the spiral staircase replaced.

The monument will remain open to visitors throughout the restoration work. This is an opportunity for the curious to follow the metamorphosis of the tower...

A sentinel over the Atlantic, the Saint-Nicolas Tower has stood guard over the entrance to the port of La Rochelle since the 14th century. But this imposing watchtower, built on marshy, unstable land reclaimed from the sea, has always required special attention.

In 2019, the Centre des monuments nationaux placed the building under surveillance due to structural disorders linked to the marine environment (tides, depressions, etc.), but also to maritime traffic.

The worsening of these problems led to the closure of the monument in July 2024. This closure provided an opportunity to carry out in-depth studies and determine the action to be taken.

Work is now underway to stabilise the structure using a combination of techniques. Consolidation of the deep foundations is planned as a second phase.

This complex project is essential to preserving the authenticity and longevity of this emblematic monument to La Rochelle's maritime history.