The Maison de Fer, a historic building in Poissy, was built in 1896 and is listed as a Monument Historique. Designed by Belgian engineer Joseph Danly, this metal structure is a showcase for the industrial architecture of the late 19th century. Now transformed into a museum of Poissy's history and a heritage architecture interpretation center, it offers a journey through Poissy's urban history, from the Middle Ages to the present day, and even imagined for tomorrow.
The Iron House, incorrectly nicknamed the Eiffel House in the 1970s, is a structure built in 1896 to plans by Belgian architect Joseph Danly. Initially conceived as a holiday home, it was listed as a historic monument in 1976 following a confusion that attributed it to Gustave Eiffel's workshop, although it does indeed adopt the pressed sheet metal principle characteristic of the period.
Joseph Danly, renowned for his work on public buildings such as hospitals and churches around the world, left only three examples of his work in France, including the Iron House in Poissy, a residence in the Arcachon basin, and another in Brittany.
The house had been abandoned and severely damaged by the storm of 1999. In 2016, the remains of the house were acquired by the City of Poissy, marking the start of a vast reconstruction project. Initially, a dismantling operation was carried out to save as many original pieces as possible, which were then stored for a sanitary assessment to determine which could be reused in the reconstruction. Parts that could not be salvaged were faithfully restored.
The project, supported by patrons and subsidies, notably from the Département to promote local tourism, enabled the Maison de Fer to be rebuilt and modernized under the direction of architect Philippe Blanc, transforming it into a cultural space now housing a heritage interpretation center.
Work was completed in 2019, and the Maison de Fer, located in the Parc Meissonnier, was inaugurated during the European Heritage Days in 2020. Today, the Maison de Fer is more than just a museum; it's an interpretation center that allows visitors to discover the evolution of Poissy, from its medieval past marked by royal and religious figures, to its significant industrial development.
Over the centuries, Poissy has distinguished itself through its royal, religious, agricultural and commercial functions, evolving from a concentration of small hamlets around the river into a prosperous city marked by major medieval buildings and a renowned livestock market. The introduction of the railroad in the 19th century not only encouraged vacationing among the wealthy classes, but also stimulated massive industrialization, transforming the urban landscape with the establishment of factories along the Seine. Today, Poissy continues to develop with innovative projects that meet the needs of a growing population while integrating sustainable development and tourism issues, preparing the city for the future while cherishing its rich heritage.
The Maison de Fer also offers a wide range of cultural and educational activities to enhance the experience. These include temporary exhibitions such as"Villas Modernes, le Corbusier, Bourgeois, deux architectes à Poissy", on view until November 2024. Family workshops and a guided tour of the city are also on the menu.
It takes part in key events, making the site freely accessible:
The Maison de Fer also boasts a specialized documentation center accessible to researchers by appointment, enabling research into architecture and industrial heritage.
Open all year round on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 6pm, and on weekdays for groups by prior arrangement, the Maison de Fer offers extensive accessibility. Admission is €3 full price and €1 concessions, with special freebies and offers combined with other local attractions such as the Villa Savoye.
Every first Sunday of the month from October to December, the Maison de Fer offers a free 30-minute guided tour, with no need to book.
In short, a visit to the Maison de Fer is a wonderful discovery for those interested in history and architecture, offering a unique insight into the innovation of the past and its modern interpretation. A true hidden treasure in Poissy's cultural landscape.
Dates and Opening Time
From April 24, 2024 to December 29, 2027
Location
The Iron House
2ter Allée des Glaieuls
78300 Poissy
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.ville-poissy.fr
