Paris Landmark Shocker: Moulin Rouge Windmill Sails Collapse Ahead of Olympics

The iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret in Paris experienced an unexpected event when its windmill lost its sails. The sails plummeted to the street below in the wee hours, with the cause of the incident remaining unknown. Authorities confirmed there were no casualties, although the Moulin Rouge sign also suffered damage.

Renowned for its vibrant nightlife since 1889, the Moulin Rouge is celebrated as the cradle of the can-can dance. This mishap occurred as Paris is gearing up to host the upcoming Olympics. Early images circulated on social media depicted the fallen sails, some showing signs of damage. The windmill has been temporarily stabilized and concealed with a green tarp for safety measures.

Local firefighters have assured that there is no further risk of collapse. Despite the calm weather, a Moulin Rouge spokesperson reported that their weekly inspections had revealed no prior issues. Jean-Victor Clerico, the cabaret’s director, ruled out any malicious intent, attributing the incident to a technical malfunction. The only other significant disaster in the landmark’s history was a devastating fire in 1915.

Situated in the Pigalle district of northern Paris, the cabaret is a must-see attraction, known for its red windmill blades. It first opened in October 1889 at the base of Montmartre hill, quickly becoming a symbol of Parisian extravagance.

Parisians gathered to witness the aftermath of the incident, expressing their sentiments. André Duval, a former Moulin Rouge employee, likened the absence of the windmill to Paris without the Eiffel Tower. Another local, Raphaël, found the sight unsettling but was relieved that no one was harmed.

In the 1890s, artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec frequented the club, capturing its essence during the “La Belle Époque” era. His posters of the can-can dancers are among his most famous works, cementing the cabaret’s status as a bastion of 19th-century burlesque.

The Moulin Rouge’s legacy was further popularized by Baz Luhrmann’s film “Moulin Rouge!” starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor. The cabaret is known for its can-can and sometimes topless performances, described in the Oxford Companion to Music as a dance that shocks tourists willing to pay for the experience.

While some performances still feature topless dancers in risqué costumes, the Moulin Rouge advertises itself as family-friendly, suitable for children over six, albeit with a caution about nudity in some acts. The cabaret is set to mark its 135th anniversary on October 6.