A pneumatic sump pump still operates at Monceau Metro Station. Can you believe it? This isn’t just any metro station. Monceau Metro Station boasts a rich history dating back to 1902. It opened as part of the extension of line 2 Nord. It became simply line 2 in 1907. The station’s name comes from a village annexed by Paris in 1860. The nearby Parc Monceau was acquired by Philippe d’Orléans in 1778. But the real story lies beneath the surface.
Initially Monceau was a terminal station. A large turning loop allowed trains to reverse direction. This loop later served a vital purpose during World War II. It was transformed into a protected operations center and an air-raid shelter for the Metro’s directors. After the war the operations center became a training facility.
Imagine the scene. Directors arriving by train on a siding protected by gas-tight doors. This remarkable siding is still accessible. It houses a collection of pre-war carriages awaiting restoration. The station’s unique design and history make it a hidden gem. The curved loop’s remnants are a testament to its past. Explore the station’s corridors. Note the white rounded lighting canopies. The bevelled white ceramic tiles are classic. The green shell seats are typical of the Motte style.
Even today a part of the Metro uses compressed air for power. The pneumatic sump pump is a legacy of this innovative system. It may be powered by a local compressor. It’s a small detail that reveals so much about the station’s ingenuity and resilience. The station’s unique history makes it more than just a transportation hub. It’s a living museum of Parisian ingenuity. In 2019 1672269 travelers used Monceau station. This placed it 269th out of 303 stations. Take a moment to appreciate this fascinating piece of Parisian history. This is Monceau Metro Station. A place where the past and present intertwine.