Initial construction 1896 (≈ 1896)
First phase by Berninger and Krafft.
1899
Adding the fourth span
Adding the fourth span 1899 (≈ 1899)
Style inspired by Parisian department stores.
1919
Change of function
Change of function 1919 (≈ 1919)
Become the cinema *Les Arcades*.
1950
Final construction phase
Final construction phase 1950 (≈ 1950)
Changes in the middle of the 20th century.
21 décembre 1984
Partial registration
Partial registration 21 décembre 1984 (≈ 1984)
Façade classified as historical monument.
1987
New commercial use
New commercial use 1987 (≈ 1987)
Transformation into a fast restaurant.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Key figures
Julius Berninger - Architect
Co-designer of the building in 1896.
Gustave Krafft - Architect
Co-designer of the building in 1896.
Origin and history
The building at 33-37, rue des Grandes-Arcades in Strasbourg is an emblematic building in the city centre. Built in three phases (1896, 1899 and 1950), it reflects the architectural evolution from the late 19th to the mid 20th century. Its façade, partially listed as historical monuments in 1984, features a metal structure inspired by Parisian department stores, with Art Nouveau decoration on its upper part. Originally, it housed the Manrique Stores, a mercery, before becoming a cinema (Les Arcades) in 1919, then a fast food restaurant in 1987.
The initial construction was attributed to architects Julius Berninger and Gustave Krafft, who designed a modern building for the period. The fourth span, added in 1899, is distinguished by its height and style, marking a break with the original spans. The partial inscription to the historic monuments in 1984 covers only the four vertical spans of the facade, excluding the ground floor and three bays of the last level. This choice highlights the most representative elements of its architectural and commercial heritage.
The history of this building illustrates the urban and economic changes in Strasbourg, moving from a local business to a place of entertainment and then an international brand. Its architecture, combining functionality and aesthetics, bears witness to the influence of Parisian department stores and the early adoption of innovative techniques such as metal frame. Today, it remains a symbol of the adaptability of historic buildings to contemporary uses.
