Viaduct of the Arts

The Viaduc des Arts is one of the hidden gems of Paris, a perfect example of how the city has managed to blend modern innovation with respect for its rich historical heritage. Located in the 12th arrondissement, the Viaduc des Arts is a masterpiece of urban redevelopment that transforms an old railway infrastructure into a vibrant space dedicated to art and craftsmanship. The history of the Viaduc des Arts begins with the construction of the Bastille railway line, inaugurated in 1859 to connect Paris to Vincennes. This elevated railway line crossed the 12th arrondissement, with the terminal station located at Bastille. However, over time and with the expansion of railway infrastructure, the Bastille line became obsolete and was closed in 1969. The railway was dismantled, leaving behind a viaduct of red bricks that stretched for 1.5 kilometers through the neighborhood. In the 1980s, the Paris city administration began exploring new ideas to redevelop the abandoned viaduct. In 1988, under the guidance of Mayor Jacques Chirac, an ambitious project was launched to transform the old viaduct into a space dedicated to arts and crafts. The project, completed in 1994, was designed by architects Patrick Berger and Jacques Vergely, who managed to preserve the historical integrity of the original structure, harmoniously integrating it with modern elements. The Viaduc des Arts consists of a series of 64 arches, each of which houses studios of artists, craftsmen, and designers. These spaces have been carefully restored and converted into bright and functional studios, offering an ideal environment for artistic creation. Here you can find ceramists, cabinetmakers, luthiers, weavers, and many other master craftsmen working with passion and dedication, keeping ancient traditions alive and experimenting with new techniques. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Viaduc des Arts is the variety of arts and crafts represented there. Walking along the viaduct, visitors can observe artisans at work, discovering the secrets of their craftsmanship. Many studios offer live demonstrations and workshops, allowing the public to immerse themselves in the creative experience and appreciate the value of manual labor. This direct interaction between artists and visitors creates a sense of community and connection, making the Viaduc des Arts a unique and stimulating place. Above the arches, the old railway track has been transformed into an elevated park known as the Coulée verte René-Dumont, or Promenade Plantée. This green path stretches for 4.7 kilometers, offering a pleasant walk among trees, shrubs, and flowers. The Promenade Plantée is one of the first examples of an urban linear park in the world and has inspired similar projects in other cities, such as the High Line in New York. This green space offers a panoramic view of the city and a peaceful refuge from urban hustle and bustle, attracting both residents and tourists. An interesting anecdote related to the Viaduc des Arts concerns its official inauguration in 1994, when the then Mayor of Paris, Jacques Chirac, described it as a brilliant example of how the city could reinvent itself without losing sight of its history and identity. Chirac emphasized the importance of supporting arts and crafts as an integral part of Parisian culture, recognizing the vital role these sectors play in the city’s economic and social life.