This morning, the iconic cabaret Moulin Rouge in Paris experienced damage to its facade. The windmill’s blades and some letters on the awning collapsed, including the letters “M,” “O,” and “U” of the company name. Additionally, the wings of the mill fell onto the sidewalk. The reasons for this incident are still unknown.
Technical Problem or Sabotage?
The director of Moulin Rouge, Jean-Victor Clerico, stated that there were no signs of sabotage and attributed the incident to a technical problem. He reassured the public that the site is constantly monitored, especially the roof, with human presence 24 hours a day. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the fire department confirmed that there is no risk of the building structure collapsing again.
Historical Significance and Ongoing Operations
The Moulin Rouge has a rich history, dating back to its founding on October 6, 1889. This is the first time an accident of this nature has occurred in its long history. The only other significant incident was a fire caused by construction work in 1915, which led to a nine-year closure.
Despite this setback, the Moulin Rouge continues to be a popular attraction, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world every day. Visitors often take photos in front of its iconic facade. The cabaret also hosts two performances every evening, 365 days a year, attracting approximately 600,000 spectators annually. With a workforce of around 450 people, the Moulin Rouge remains a thriving cultural institution.
