Clermont-Ferrand station

Completed in 1945, the Clermont-Ferrand train station is an example of modernist architecture. It has Architecture Contemporaine Remarquable (remarkable contemporary architecture) status.

The first train station in Clermont-Ferrand was inaugurated in 1855 for goods transport and passenger travel. An entire new neighbourhood was created to the east of the historic centre of Clermont-Ferrand and urban planning created wide avenues leading to the station. A new parish (Saint Joseph), businesses and hotels completed the development. But the only parts remaining of this first station are the side lodges.

The present-day station was completed in 1945. It was the SNCF architect-engineer Paul Peirani who designed it, based on the model for the station at Le Havre (1929-1931) by architect Henri Pacon. The building is an example of modernist architecture with wide bay windows for maximum lighting in the entrance lobby, refined and simple lines, and an emphasis on light. The entrance lobby is decorated with enamelled lava stone by Jean Jaffeux. The clock tower is a recurring feature in train station architecture, since it is a symbol of punctuality and speed. The Clermont-Ferrand train station was awarded “Architecture Contemporaine Remarquable” (remarkable contemporary architecture) status in 2023.

Since thermal spa resorts were becoming popular in the 19th century, it became important to establish train connections with them. Royat was connected from 1886 after the construction of a huge viaduct in 1881. Previously, spa visitors left the train at Clermont-Ferrand and finished their journey by horse and carriage. This is what Napoleon III did when he visited Clermont-Ferrand and Royat in 1862.