Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Louviers music kiosk, also known as Ernest-Thorel kiosk, was erected around 1910 in the gardens of the Town Hall, at the site of the former Saint-Louis-Sainte-Élisabeth convent. Its reinforced concrete construction, entrusted to the company Monsnergue de Rouen, follows the plans of the municipal architect Toupnot. The project, voted in 1895 under the leadership of Mayor Ernest Thorel, was finally realized at a cost of 5,680 francs and inaugurated on 9 May 1909.

The monument is distinguished by its octagonal shape, its false rock base and its eight pillars imitating trees. The roof, surmounted by a lyre, is supported by a structure entirely made of concrete, reflecting the technical innovation of the period. A staircase with ramp allows access to the area reserved for musicians, highlighting its use dedicated to outdoor concerts.

Ranked in the inventory of historical monuments since July 3, 2020, the kiosk shows the cultural and social importance of music in local life in the early 20th century. Its central location, near Ernest-Thorel Square and the museum, makes it a historic gathering place for the inhabitants of Louviers.

The original project, conceived in 1895, aimed to transform the space of the old demolished church into a public garden with kiosk. After several years of preparation, the contract was awarded in August 1908 to the company Monsnergue, specialist in reinforced concrete and dealer of the Hennebique system. This technical choice illustrates the increasing adoption of modern materials in the public architecture of the time.

External links