It was Georges Pompidou (1969-1974) who saved the station on the banks of the Seine from demolition by giving it heritage status and outlining plans for a museum. But it was the “determined work and engagement” of his successor Giscard that saw the project through, the culture ministry said in a statement. The museum was finally opened in December 1986 by President Francois Mitterrand. France is fond of naming its institutions after past presidents: the Centre Pompidou is France’s foremost modern art museum, while the National Library is dedicated to Mitterrand. The Musee du Quai Branly, featuring indigenous art from around the world, recently added Jacques Chirac to its name.

Source: The Local March 29, 2021 12:00 UTC