Le Volcan

Le Volcan

The Le Havre audio-guided tour reveals Le Volcan, a striking white structure that is one of the city's main cultural venues. Its name, obvious at first glance, comes from its rounded silhouette evoking a crater.

A work by Oscar Niemeyer

Built in the late 1970s and opened in 1982, Le Volcan is the work of the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, a major figure of modern architecture, who also gave his name to this central square. The building houses two performance halls that can seat more than nine hundred spectators in total, for theatre, music, dance or circus.

What there is to see

The white, pure curves of Le Volcan contrast with the straight lines of Perret's concrete, offering a striking dialogue between two visions of modern architecture. The national stage of Le Havre, the building hosts a rich programme of live performances. The lively square around it is one of the cultural hearts of the city.

Practical information

Le Volcan is on the Oscar Niemeyer space, in the centre of Le Havre, near the Bassin du Commerce. Its silhouette can be seen freely from the square; access to the interior is in the context of shows and certain visits, whose programming, hours and prices vary. It is best to check the programme in advance.

Who designed Le Volcan in Le Havre ?

The Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer; the building opened in 1982 and houses the national stage of Le Havre.

Why is it called Le Volcan ?

Because of its white, rounded silhouette, which evokes the shape of a volcano or a crater.