Exterior view of Cirque d'Amiens, a historic circus building in Amiens, France

Cirque Jules Verne

Cirque Jules Verne Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Amiens Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Cirque Jules Verne, located in the heart of Amiens, France, stands as a testament to the city’s enduring fascination with circus arts and its commitment to cultural innovation. Established in 1889 through the efforts of Mayor Frédéric Petit and the celebrated author Jules Verne, this unique venue combines 19th-century architectural ingenuity with a vibrant contemporary arts scene. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, circus aficionado, or a first-time visitor to Amiens, this comprehensive guide details everything you need to know—from visiting hours and ticketing to accessibility, programming, and nearby attractions (Cirque Jules Verne Official Website; Amiens Tourism Office; Circostrada).

Amiens Stadscircus street view in France, 1893

Early 20th century crowd at the Amiens circus during St-Jean festival in 1912

Old postcard depicting the circus in Amiens

Introduction
Historical Background
- The Origins of Circus in Amiens
- The Conception and Construction of Cirque Jules Verne
Architectural and Artistic Features
Jules Verne’s Legacy
Survival and Renovation
Cirque Jules Verne Today
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

Historical Background

The Origins of Circus in Amiens

Amiens’ circus tradition began in 1845 with temporary wooden structures erected for the annual Foire de la Saint-Jean. The growing popularity of circus arts—first brought to France by Philip Astley in 1782—led to repeated calls for a permanent venue as early as 1865. Despite initial setbacks and the use of provisional circuses, the city’s leaders were determined to create a lasting monument for the performing arts.

The Conception and Construction of Cirque Jules Verne

By the late 1880s, Mayor Frédéric Petit and Jules Verne, then a city councilor and circus enthusiast, secured the resources and public support for a permanent circus building. Architect Émile Ricquier, a protégé of Gustave Eiffel, designed the innovative 16-sided structure, featuring advanced amenities for its time such as electric lighting and steam-powered heating. The Cirque Jules Verne was inaugurated on June 23, 1889, during the centenary celebration of the French Revolution (Amiens.fr).

Architectural and Artistic Features

The Cirque Jules Verne is among the largest permanent circus buildings in France, accommodating up to 1,650 spectators in the round. Its 16-sided polygonal form, built from brick, stone, and iron, ensures optimal sightlines and acoustics. The exterior is defined by a grand portico and symmetrical pavilions, while the interior originally showcased rich Pompeian-style decoration. The circus ring, 13 meters in diameter, is central to both the building’s design and its ongoing tradition of circular performance spaces (Circostrada).

Jules Verne’s Legacy

Jules Verne’s passion for the circus deeply influenced the creation and spirit of the venue. His advocacy as vice-president of Amiens’ cultural affairs commission was essential in bringing the project to life. In 2003, after a major restoration, the venue was officially named Cirque Jules Verne in his honor, cementing his legacy in the city’s cultural landscape.

Survival and Renovation

The Cirque Jules Verne endured significant challenges throughout the 20th century, including damage during World War I and ongoing threats of demolition. Key renovations in the 1920s, 1960s, and early 2000s preserved its historic character while updating its technical capabilities. The 2003 restoration modernized the venue, ensuring its continued prominence in Amiens’ cultural life (Amiens.fr).

Cirque Jules Verne Today

Now designated as a National Circus Center (Pôle National Cirque), the Cirque Jules Verne is a dynamic hub for contemporary circus, street arts, and multidisciplinary performance. Its program includes:

Les Tentaculaires Festival: An annual street arts festival featuring large-scale outdoor performances and city-wide celebrations (Les Tentaculaires Festival; L’Observateur de Beauvais)
Workshops and Education: The École du Cirque Jules Verne offers professional training in circus arts to children and adults.
Artistic Residencies: The venue supports emerging artists, hosting residencies and collaborative projects.
Community Initiatives: Programs designed for social inclusion, family engagement, and cultural partnerships with local schools and associations.

The Cirque Jules Verne’s commitment to both tradition and innovation makes it a living monument and a leader in the evolution of circus arts in France (Circostrada).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Box Office: Typically open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Performances and Tours: Scheduled mainly in the evenings and on weekends. Hours may vary for special events or festivals.
Guided Tours: Offered seasonally; consult the official website for up-to-date details.

Tickets and Pricing

Purchase: Tickets are available online via the Cirque Jules Verne website, at the box office, or through authorized partners.
Pricing: Standard tickets range from €10–€30. Discounts are available for children, students, seniors, and groups. Some events, like Les Tentaculaires, are free to the public.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Ramps, reserved seating, and accessible restrooms are provided.
Hearing Assistance: Assistive listening devices are available.
Other Needs: Visitors with specific requirements are encouraged to contact the venue in advance (Amiens Tourisme).

How to Get There

Address: Place Longueville, 80000 Amiens, France (thetouristchecklist.com)
Public Transport: Served by bus lines 1 and 3; within walking distance of Amiens train station.
Parking: Public lots available nearby, though spaces may be limited during major events.

Nearby Attractions

Maison de Jules Verne: The author’s residence, now a museum.
Musée de Picardie: Regional fine arts museum.
Amiens Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hortillonnages: The city’s famous floating gardens.
Saint-Leu District: Vibrant area with canals, cafes, and street art.

Tips for Visitors

Arrive Early: Explore the architecture and take photos.
Check Event Calendars: Plan around special festivals for a unique experience.
Dining: Numerous cafés and restaurants are nearby for pre- or post-show meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Cirque Jules Verne visiting hours?
A: Hours vary by event. The box office is generally open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Check the official website for performance times.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, at the box office, or through authorized tourism partners.

Q: Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, accessible seating, and assistive devices.

Q: Are there family-friendly shows?
A: Many performances and workshops are designed for all ages.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Maison de Jules Verne, Musée de Picardie, Amiens Cathedral, and the Hortillonnages gardens.

Conclusion

A visit to the Cirque Jules Verne offers a captivating blend of architectural grandeur, historical significance, and world-class circus arts. The venue stands not only as a monument to 19th-century innovation but as a vibrant center for contemporary creativity and community engagement. By planning your visit around the official schedules and taking advantage of nearby attractions, you’ll experience the very best of Amiens’ cultural heritage. For the latest updates on shows and events, follow the Cirque Jules Verne on social media and consider using the Audiala app to enrich your journey through the city’s cultural treasures.