In a historic decision, French Culture Minister Rachida Dati announced that the Fountains Pavilion, a building linked to the notable research of Polish scientist Marie Curie, will be moved “stone by stone” to avoid its imminent demolition.
The structure, located on a historic site where Curie conducted her groundbreaking research into radioactivity, was under threat due to the Curie Institute’s expansion plans to build a new center dedicated to biological chemistry for the study of cancer.
Avoiding demolition
The effective mobilization of defenders of historical heritage managed to suspend the demolition in January, now minister Rachida Dati confirms that the Pavilhão das Fontes will be moved a few meters to make the new construction viable.
The measure aims to reconcile scientific advancement with the preservation of the history linked to the renowned researcher.
During an interview on a radio station, the minister, who recently took office, confirmed the relocation of the historic building.
She had already requested months ago to include the Fountains Pavilion in the inventory of French historical monuments.
Marie Curie’s Laboratory – Image: Wiki Commons/Reproduction
Pioneering woman scientist
Marie Curie, born Maria Salomea Skłodowska, was a Polish-born French physicist and chemist, the first person to carry out research into radioactivity.
Furthermore, she was the first woman to receive two Nobel Prizes (Physics and Chemistry) and the first to obtain both prizes in different categories.
Thus, Curie played a fundamental role in scientific history and in the promotion of women in science.
Marie Curie’s legacy
The scientist, born in Warsaw in 1867, developed the theory of ‘radioactivity’ and made fundamental discoveries, including the chemical elements polonium and radium.
Founder of the Curie Institute in Paris, her contributions to medicine included pioneering studies on the treatment of neoplasms using radioactive isotopes.
During the First World War, Curie innovated by creating mobile radiography units to serve field hospitals.
The measure to preserve the Fountains Pavilion highlights France’s commitment to keeping alive the memory of the scientist, one of the most prominent figures in the history of world science.
The ‘stone by stone’ transfer not only safeguards historical heritage, but also strengthens the connection between the past and the future of scientific research.
