Maison de Fer, Cast-iron museum in Parc Meissonier, Poissy, France
The Maison de Fer is a cast-iron building with two floors above ground and one basement level, constructed using modular techniques that allow different sections to fit together like puzzle pieces. It now operates as a museum within Parc Meissonier, displaying artifacts and information about the city's past and industrial development.
Belgian engineer Joseph Danly designed this building in 1896 as an experimental approach to construction using prefabricated cast-iron components. Only a few of his creations still stand today, making this one of the most significant examples of his engineering vision.
The house tells the story of how Poissy became an important commercial and industrial hub near Paris, reflecting the lives and work of its residents over time. Through the exhibitions, you can see how the community adapted and thrived during periods of growth and change.
The museum is located within a public park that is easy to reach on foot from the city center. It is wise to check opening hours before visiting, as access is limited to specific days and times.
The building underwent a complete overhaul in 2019 that carefully preserved original metal parts and incorporated them into the newly reconstructed structure. This restoration revealed how durable and adaptable cast iron proves to be as a building material over more than a century of time.
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