One of the world’s oldest indoor circuses, the Cirque d’Hiver in Paris, is set to undergo a major restoration project after the discovery of long-hidden decorative murals that date back more than a century. The ambitious renovation aims to return the iconic venue to its original 19th-century splendour while preserving its cultural and architectural heritage.
Opened in 1852 during the reign of Napoleon III, the historic building has been a cornerstone of Paris’s entertainment culture for more than 170 years and is widely considered the oldest permanent circus structure still in operation. Over the decades, it has hosted legendary performers, groundbreaking circus acts and even film productions, making it a symbol of the city’s long-standing circus tradition.
The current restoration plans were sparked by the recent discovery of 20 large murals that had been concealed behind wooden panels since the 1950s. These artworks, painted along the interior walls surrounding the circus ring, depict dramatic historical and equestrian scenes that reflect both the spectacle of early circus performances and elements of French history. Experts believe the paintings form a sweeping visual panorama of France’s past, including scenes such as battles between the Gauls and the Romans.
Architect Stéphane Millet, who is overseeing the restoration, said the murals were found to be largely recoverable despite signs of water damage. Their rediscovery has renewed interest in restoring the building’s original decorative features and bringing back the elaborate aesthetic envisioned by its 19th-century designers. The restoration will involve carefully uncovering and repairing the murals, refurbishing the interior décor and reinstating architectural elements that were hidden or altered during earlier renovations.
Beyond the murals, the project will include improvements to the theatre’s seating, carpets and ventilation systems to enhance comfort for modern audiences. Windows that were previously covered by heavy curtains will also be restored, allowing more natural light into the historic structure. At the same time, efforts will be made to maintain the building’s traditional appearance while meeting contemporary safety and accessibility standards.
The renovation is expected to take several years and cost several million euros, although the exact budget has not been publicly disclosed. Funding for the project will come from a partnership between the French culture ministry and the circus’s owners, the Bouglione family, who have managed the venue since the 1930s. While the use of public funds has sparked some debate amid France’s economic challenges, supporters argue that preserving such landmarks is vital for protecting the country’s cultural heritage.
The circus holds a special place in performance history. In 1859, acrobat Jules Léotard performed the first public flying trapeze act there, an innovation that revolutionised circus entertainment and gave rise to the famous skin-tight costume known as the “leotard.”
Over the decades, the venue has remained a beloved cultural institution where generations of Parisians first experienced clowns, acrobats and equestrian shows. Even in an era dominated by digital entertainment, its operators believe restoring the building’s lost decorative features will reinforce its status as one of the world’s most remarkable circus venues and ensure that the historic landmark continues to captivate audiences for decades to come.
