Centre des Monuments Nationaux partners Fondation de France to create the Asian Circle of French National Monuments
A special evening unfolded at the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, a jewel of radiant Gothic architecture, on 11 October 2024, marking the formal establishment of the “Asian Circle of French National Monuments”, a circle of patrons, economic and cultural figures, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of French monumental heritage.
The evening commenced with a truly memorable concert of the Ensemble Correspondances which delivered a captivating performance of baroque music. The programme resonated deeply with the venue’s history, as one of the period’s renowned composers, Marc-Antoine Charpentier, once served as a music master within the walls of Sainte-Chapelle. This harmonious beginning provided a fitting backdrop for the evening’s central purpose.
Earlier the same morning, Marie Lavandier, President of the Centre des Monuments Nationaux and Axelle Davezac, CEO of Fondation de France, signed a partnership agreement acting the official creation of the Asian Circle of French National Monuments, in close collaboration with the Asian branch of the Fondation, established in Hong Kong since 2023.
The Asian Circle of French National Monuments brings together prominent Asian individuals and philanthropists, eager to contribute to the preservation of France’s iconic monuments. Through this initiative, the Asian Circle will support restoration projects, cultural events, and educational programs designed to highlight the richness of French heritage while establishing cultural ties between France and Asia.
Marie Lavandier, President of Centre des Monuments Nationaux stated: “The Asian Circle of French National Monuments represents a unique initiative that embodies our vision of a global and diverse patronage for the preservation of our heritage.”
“Fondation de France is very pleased to partner with Centre des Monuments Nationaux to jointly lead the development of cultural and philanthropic relations around French heritage in Asia. Several influential figures have already joined the Asian Circle, demonstrating a genuine interest in cross-border exchanges and cooperation around the promotion and sharing of history and expertise,” specifies Axelle Davezac, CEO of Fondation de France.
