Villum Foundation Supports the Reopening of an Iconic European Cultural Monument

The Villum Foundation has granted DKK 7.5 million to a key subproject of the restoration: the reintroduction of natural light into the Grand Palais. The project includes the restoration of 5000 m2 glass roofs over the exhibition galleries and entrance hall. The foundation has previously funded the restauration of the spectacular glass dome of the rotunda in Palais d’Antin – a central hall located at the heart of the Grand Palais.

Originally built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, the Grand Palais is being restored to its original architectural grandeur. Additions made in later periods have been removed, and the palace’s original spatial coherence and natural lighting have been reestablished. A full 60% of the building’s usable space has been recovered, allowing visitors to once again experience the architectural perspectives along the palace’s axes.

“We are deeply grateful for the Villum Foundation’s generous support, which has been crucial in realizing the vision of an open, vibrant, and inclusive Grand Palais. The foundation’s contribution has made it possible to bring more daylight into the architecture and to restore the palace’s original architectural vision,” says Didier Fusillier, President of the GrandPalaisRmn. 

Throughout its history, the Grand Palais has served many purposes. Built as a monument to art and innovation, it has hosted everything from prestigious art exhibitions and fashion weeks to sporting events and technology fairs. During World War I, it even served as a military hospital.

With the restoration, the Grand Palais is now more open to the public than ever before. Previously inaccessible areas will be opened to visitors, and the building will offer improved accessibility for all. The vision is for the Grand Palais to become a vibrant and inclusive cultural center and modern gathering place in the heart of Paris, featuring citizen-engaging activities, public debates, art exhibitions, concerts, and other events.

“Cultural heritage is part of our shared education and identity – across borders. That’s why it’s important to support projects like the Grand Palais, where a significant example of European cultural heritage is not only preserved but also provides the framework for a vibrant cultural life and community for the benefit of future generations,” says Lars Bo Nielsen, Director of the Villum Foundation.

“The Grand Palais is not just an important French cultural monument, but part of Europe’s shared cultural heritage. The Villum Foundation’s commitment is a beautiful example of how Danish-French collaboration can create lasting connections through culture and architecture – a gift to both the present and the future,” says Denmark’s Ambassador to France, Hanne Fugl Eskjær.

The Villum Foundation has previously contributed to the restauration of other major cultural projects in Europe, including La Sainte-Chapelle and Hôtel de la Marine in Paris, as well as the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and the State Council Building in Berlin.