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Tour Perret in Grenoble Reopens After 60 Years

architecture-design · 2026-05-12

After more than sixty years, the Tour Perret, recognized as Europe’s first reinforced concrete tower, has reopened its doors in Grenoble, France. This iconic structure, designed by Auguste Perret and completed in 1925 for the International Exhibition of Hydroelectric Energy and Tourism, underwent a restoration costing 15.5 million euros, overseen by François Botton. Visitors can now enjoy a panoramic platform at 60 meters, accessible via a restored elevator or by climbing an additional 20 meters up a helical staircase. Since its reopening on July 11, the tower has welcomed 4,330 visitors in July, with daily attendance reaching up to 400. The octagonal design and slender pillars of the tower reflect Grenoble's modernist character alongside 17 classified buildings.

Key facts

  • The Tour Perret in Grenoble, France, reopened on July 11 after being closed for over 60 years.
  • The tower was built in 1925 for the International Exhibition of Hydroelectric Energy and Tourism.
  • The restoration cost 15.5 million euros and took 2.5 years.
  • The tower is 90 meters tall and features a panoramic platform at 60 meters.
  • The restoration was supervised by François Botton, chief architect of Monuments Historiques.
  • In July, the tower attracted 4,330 visitors, with up to 400 per day.
  • The tower was designed by Auguste Perret, also known for the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame de Raincy.
  • The tower's construction was facilitated by Marie Dormoy, who convinced Perret to participate in the 1925 expo.

Entities

Artists

  • Auguste Perret
  • Marie Dormoy
  • François Botton
  • Rebecca Bilon
  • Maurice Novarina
  • André Wogenscky
  • Jean Prouvé
  • Antoine Bourdelle
  • Louis Vicat
  • Cédric Avenier
  • Paul Mistral

Institutions

  • Monuments Historiques
  • Muséum de Grenoble
  • Vicat
  • Monoprix
  • Ministry of Culture
  • Artribune
  • Connaissance des Arts
  • Beaux Arts Magazine
  • Ville de Grenoble
  • État français
  • Département de l'Isère

Locations

  • Grenoble
  • France
  • Isère
  • Vif
  • Paris
  • Ixelles
  • Chartreuse
  • Vercors
  • Monte Bianco
  • Alps
  • Parc Paul Mistral
  • 11 boulevard Jean Pain, 38000 Grenoble
  • parc Paul-Mistral
  • Le Havre

Sources