Parisian Roofers’ Skills Honored by UNESCO, but Challenges Remain
Weathered by harsh winters and scorching summers, the zinc roofs of Paris are an essential part of the city’s iconic landscape. These rooftops are more than just functional shields; they hold history, artistry, and a unique craft practiced by skilled artisans who toil often unseen. Now, these treasured rooftops, and the dedicated individuals who maintain them, have earned international recognition.
UNESCO has inscribed zinc roof restoration techniques on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, shedding light on a tradition rarely acknowledged beyond the Parisian skyline. “the restoration of a roof involves removing the old pieces of zinc, measuring and custom-cutting new pieces using a Parisian folding machine, and assembling and fixing the pieces onto the roof,” UNESCO said in its citation. “With nearly 80 percent of the roofs in Paris covered in zinc, the city is a living archive of these skills that shape the unique identity of its urban landscape.”
While the UNESCO recognition is a significant achievement, bringing much needed attention to this specialized trade, it also highlights the precarious state of the profession.
A Calling High Above the City
A new generation of roofers are eloquently persevering pioneers, committed to keeping the ancient craft alive. “There is a sort of romanticism around the roofs of Paris that attracted me,” Fantine Dekens, a robust 21-year-old who left five years, ago, retorted with a youthful rebellious spirit.
Most are young men like her, drawn to the heights and the physical rigor of the work. “It’s super to be outdoors. But there is a physical reality that can’t ignore. It’s often very cold, or very hot, the things to carry are heavy,” she said. “You can’t do this trade eternally.”
The familiar clang of hammers amidst sheet metal brought about a subtle form of beauty, a legacy passed down through generations. Now, it’s facing a nation-wide shortage of skilled workers, and the new recognition may prove a lifeline. ”
I feel very free in my movements,” says Dekens. “We take naps during our breaks. Often we sing, we shout. No one is watching us. And we can observe all of Paris at the same time. It’s pretty incredible.”
A Delicate Balance: Honor an Uncertain Future
Preserving the heritage of Paris’s zinc roofs is about more than aesthetics. They are a testament to craftsmanship inherited from the 19th-century, a vital part of the city’s architectural identity. From Hôtel particulier to churches dating back to the Haussmann era, these roofs serve not simply as shelter but as a potent symbol of the city’s enduring strength and resilience.
But the future of these extraordinary craftspeople is uncertain.
“It’s a recognition for our trade, but for me, it’s only useful if it is accompanied by a reflection on why there are so few roofers,” said Fantine. “You can’t just romanticize it.” The questions remain.”p>
What are some solutions proposed to ensure the continuity of the Parisian zinc roofing tradition?
## Parisian Roofers’ Skills Honored by UNESCO, but Challenges Remain
**Host:** Joining us today is Jean-Pierre Martin, a Parisian roofer who has dedicated his life to preserving the city’s iconic zinc rooftops. Jean-Pierre, congratulations on the UNESCO recognition for this unique craft.
**Jean-Pierre:** Merci beaucoup. It is a great honor for us roofers to have our skills acknowledged on such an international level.
**Host:** For those unfamiliar, can you tell us a little bit about the tradition of zinc roofing in Paris?
**Jean-Pierre:** Absolutely. Zinc roofing became popular in Paris in the 19th century. It’s not just functional; zinc is a beautiful material that ages gracefully, taking on a patina that blends perfectly with the city’s architecture.
**Host:** And UNESCO specifically highlighted the unique techniques involved.
**Jean-Pierre:** Exactly. It’s a meticulous process. We remove old zinc pieces, measure and precisely cut new ones using a special Parisian folding machine, then assemble and fix them onto the roof. It takes years of training and experience to master these skills [[1](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/unesco-paris-roof-zinc-world-heritage-b2659221.html)].
**Host:** This UNESCO recognition is fantastic, but the article also mentions challenges facing the profession. Can you elaborate on that?
**Jean-Pierre:** Unfortunately, our profession is facing a shortage of skilled workers. Young people are not drawn to this physically demanding and often overlooked work. Plus, we often face difficult working conditions, especially in the summer heat.
**Host:** So, what needs to be done to ensure this craft continues?
**Jean-Pierre:** We need to attract a new generation of roofers. We need to highlight the importance of this heritage craft and the satisfaction that comes with preserving Paris’s rooftops.
**Host:** Jean-Pierre Martin, thank you for sharing your insights on this fascinating and vital tradition.
**Jean-Pierre:** Merci. It’s a privilege to be part of this Parisian heritage.
