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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The metro entrance to the Europe station, located on Rue de Madrid in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, was designed in 1900 by the architect Hector Guimard (1867-1942) as part of the project to improve access to the Paris metro network. This monument is part of the Art Nouveau movement, characterized by curved lines, stylized plant motifs and the use of modern materials such as cast iron, glass and enamelled lava. Guimard, although not having won the initial competition organized by the Compagnie du chemin de fer métropolitain de Paris (CMP), was finally chosen to achieve these entrances, probably thanks to his relations and his prestige acquired with previous achievements such as the Castel Béranger.

The Guimard metro entrances are available in several models: covered edicles (models A and B), larger pavilions (such as those of Bastille or Étoile), and simple entourages composed of cast iron balustrades and candelabras decorated with "Metropolitan" signs. Guimard's style, marked by organic forms and a search for harmony between structure and decor, has been controversial since its appearance. Some saw it as an aesthetic break too bold, while others praised its originality. Materials, such as green and orange enamelled lava or blown glass verrines, were chosen for their durability and visual effect.

The realization of the entrances was quick to respond to the urgency of the inauguration of the metro before the Universal Exhibition of 1900. However, tensions between Guimard and the CMP, particularly over the costs and ownership of models, led to a breakdown in 1903. Despite this, the entrances continued to be installed until 1913. After World War I, Art Nouveau fell into disuse, and many Guimard entrances were destroyed or replaced by more sober models, such as those of architect Joseph Cassien-Bernard. Only 86 of the 167 original works remain today, protected since 1978 under the Historic Monuments.

The Europe station, like others, benefits from a typical escutcheon entourage, with its candelabres in the shape of "strands of muguet" and its enamelled lava signs. These elements, restored from the 1960s onwards, became symbols of Parisian heritage. Their preservation reflects a renewed interest in Art Nouveau and Guimard's creative genius, whose metro entrances remain the most famous work. Today, they attract both history lovers and tourists, embodying the innovative spirit of the Belle Époque.

The entry of the Europe station, protected by order of 12 February 2016, is one of the few still visible examples of this heritage. Its design, both functional and artistic, reflects Guimard's desire to combine industry and aesthetics, an avant-garde vision for the time. The original materials, such as enamelled lava panels or moulded fonts, have been preserved or restored to preserve the authenticity of these works, now inseparable from the visual identity of Paris.

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