Opening of the Embarcadère

The Embarcadère, the new performance and convention centre of the city of Boulogne-sur-Mer, asserts itself from its inauguration as a facility of national influence, destined to energise the Hauts-de-France region. Its polar position at the heart of the emblematic site of the former ferry terminal, within the memorial setting of the former jetties, is accompanied by a radical architectural gesture.

It is both a momentum and a springboard for the diversity of cultural events that will be able to flourish there, in its contemporary music hall, in its beacon-like foyer illuminating the harbour, as well as in its large hall with a capacity of 3,000 seats. The latter, threaded by internal walkways, symbolically heightens the theme of embarkation.

Designed by CLÉ MILLET ARCHITECTES and built by Eiffage, this vessel of concrete and glass meets the strictest environmental requirements in a setting that combines a city-centre location with an aggressive marine climate, justifying uncompromising choices in durability. Framed by the pyramidions of its south-east façade, the outdoor stage demonstrated during the opening ceremonies its capacity to welcome several thousand spectators, captivated by the natural screen formed by its architecture.