Former cultural centre

Built between 1936 and 1938 by local architect Marcel Pinon, this stunning edifice in light red brick started as a grand banquet hall. By the 60s, it had transformed into a go-to happening spot with performance halls, art shows, and even a disco! In 1963, thanks to the then Minister of Cultural Affairs André Malraux, this beautiful building became France’s very first Cultural Centre. The grand opening was so epic, they held it not once, not twice, but three times: once in 1963, then in 1964 in the presence of André Malraux, and again in 1965 in the presence of General de Gaulle. Talk about going all out! Up until 2009, this cultural hub kept the locals entertained with shows, concerts, exhibitions and all sorts of cool events. Fun fact: the people of Bourges are not called “Bourgeois”, as one might assume, but rather “Berruyers”; it’s a nod to the province of Berry, where the city’s located. Calling them Bourgeois might just earn you some serious side-eye! Now that you’ve been warned, I’ll leave you to admire the former Cultural Centre of Bourges, classified as a Historic Monument. Over the years, the old cultural center got a bit run down, especially its interior, so they built a new one just a few meters away. Despite everything, it’s still a must-see city landmark, for its history, its architecture and the meaning it holds for the people of Bourges!