Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Chardon de La Bourboule casino, built in 1892 at the initiative of Mr Chardon, replaces an old wooden casino. The architect Émile Camut then conceived the eastern part of the building, visible today as the central heart, flanked by a building body to the right. This first building, of sober style, still retains its original appearance on the facades of Rue Château. Purchased by the municipality in 1910, the casino is entrusted to a private company responsible for its expansion and modernization.

The westward extension began in 1928 under the direction of the Parisian architect Georges Vimort, who had already intervened in 1925 for transformations. This project respects the initial symmetry while introducing Art Deco elements into interior spaces, such as the large hall and its honorary staircase. Between 1987 and 1995, the western part was renovated to accommodate congresses, while the facades, roofs, and iconic halls (vestibulum, atrium, festive hall) were classified as historical monuments in 2016.

Today operated by the Arevian group, the casino Chardon combines games rooms, restaurant, and various entertainments (concerts, dancing teas, theme meals). Its history reflects the evolution of spas at the turn of the 20th century, where casinos played a central role in social and cultural life. The former casino of the Thermes, bought in 1910, was transformed into a town hall in 1913, marking the separation of fun and administrative functions in the city.

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