Chambre de Commerce (Chamber of Commerce), Lille

The Chamber of Commerce (Chambre de Commerce) in Lille housed within the Nouvelle Bourse building, stands as a prominent architectural and historical landmark. Constructed over 11 years from 1910 to 1921, it is situated directly across from the Old Stock Exchange (Vieille Bourse) on the Theater Square (Place du Théâtre). Designed by architect Louis Marie Cordonnier, the New Stock Exchange (Nouvelle Bourse) was intended to serve as the headquarters for the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Greater Lille, an institution that was founded in 1715.

Architecturally, the building exemplifies Neo-Flemish style, drawing inspiration from the grand Dutch town halls of the past. This style is apparent in its rich decorative elements, including plant motifs and scrolls reminiscent of 17th-century Lille. One of the most striking features of the building is its 76-meter-high belfry, adorned with a four-dial clock and an automated carillon that includes 26 bells weighing a total of 2000 kg, cast in 1984 by Luigi Bergamo of the Cornille-Havard foundry.

The interior of the building is equally impressive, with a 25x25-meter hall of honor that boasts colonnaded galleries and a 17-meter high dome, lavishly decorated with exquisite frescoes. The building also houses several important rooms used for various functions, including a 300-seat auditorium known as the Descamps room, Reception rooms, the Sessions room, and the Committee room or the Kuhlmann office, which are also richly decorated with frescoes and woodwork.

In recognition of its architectural and historical significance, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry building was listed as a historic monument in 2015. This designation underscores its importance not only as a center of commerce and industry but also as a key part of Lille’s cultural and historical heritage.