Paris: work under way on 'The Cavern of Pont Neuf', opening postponed indefinitely

Published on 04/06/2026 - 18:52 GMT+2•Updated

19:10

No new opening date has yet been set for JR's installation overlooking the Seine, even though repair work has begun. The process is expected to continue "at least over the coming days and the week ahead", according to a statement from the project partners sent to Euronews.

This giant artwork, conceived as a tribute to Christo and Jeanne-Claude, who wrapped the Pont Neuf in 1985, was damaged on Tuesday afternoon during a spell of strong gusts that swept across the capital. Technical experts and engineers deployed on site confirmed that the incident was caused by an "exceptional weather phenomenon".

Limited damage and "weather-related hazards"

According to new information, the tear in the fabric caused "localised deterioration in three areas of the inflatable envelope".

The project teams stress that "the compartmentalisation of the envelope and the safety systems put in place kept the incident contained".

The work under way will focus on two aspects: repairing the outer fabric and the affected parts of the inflatable structure.

The restoration operations can only be carried out once "weather conditions have returned to seasonal norms", the statement added, emphasising the safety of the teams on site.

The torn fabric itself will be restored in the workshop. As for putting it back into shape, "several options are being considered", given the colossal dimensions of the work: 2,400 m² of ground area, 120 metres long, 20 metres wide and with high points ranging from 12 to 18 metres.

The inauguration of "La Caverne", a work intended to "question" the public's relationship with the city and already provoking mixed reactions, was initially scheduled for 6 June. The new date will only be set "in light of the progress" of the repairs.