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

Published on 04/06/2026 - 18:52 GMT+2•Updated 18:55

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

This monumental work, 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 on site confirmed that the incident was caused by an "exceptional weather event".

Limited damage and "weather hazards"

According to newly available information, the tear in the canvas caused "localised damage to the inflatable shell in three places".

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

The work now under way will focus on two areas: repairing the outer canvas and the affected parts of the inflatable structure.

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

The torn canvas itself will be restored in the workshop. As for putting it back into shape, "several scenarios are being considered", given the colossal dimensions of the work: 2,400 m² of ground area, 120 metres long, 20 metres wide and with highest 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 originally scheduled for 6 June. A new date will only be set "in the light of progress" on the work.