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There are no AC in our buildings. 

Due to the high temperatures, we advise you to visit the museum in the morning. 

 

Le musée is closed

There are no AC in our buildings. 

Due to the high temperatures, we advise you to visit the museum in the morning. 

 

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RENAULT Espace Matra spéciale

  • RENAULT "ESPACE Spéciale" du Musée de l'automobile Henri Malartre.
  • RENAULT "ESPACE Spéciale" du Musée de l'automobile Henri Malartre.
  • Détails de la RENAULT "ESPACE Spéciale" du Musée de l'automobile Henri Malartre.
  • Détails de la RENAULT "ESPACE Spéciale" du Musée de l'automobile Henri Malartre.
  • Photographie historique liée à la RENAULT "ESPACE Spéciale" du Musée de l'automobile Henri Malartre.

The first-generation Renault Espace -a revolutionary minivan for its time- was produced and sold in France beginning in 1984. A French adaptation of the American minivan concept, this vehicle enjoyed great success in France, with more than 190,000 units sold between 1984 and 1991.

The Matra Espace was completely redesigned to meet the Pope’s specific needs. Engineers created a veritable mobile throne, allowing the pontiff to stand and bless the crowd under the best possible conditions. To achieve this, the rear of the vehicle was completely redesigned to create an open space offering optimal visibility. Steps were added to facilitate access, and handrails were installed.

The choice of the Matra Espace -a modern and practical vehicle- reflected the Catholic Church’s commitment to openness and modernity. By using a popular mode of transportation, the Pope demonstrated his closeness to his faithful and his desire to engage with all segments of society. This image of an accessible, active Pope left a lasting impression and helped bolster his popularity. Indeed, while the papal Espace Matra is a little-known chapter in automotive history, it remains nonetheless iconic.

  • 4-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft - 1,995 cm3 - 110 hp
  • Open-top body with raised platform and handrail
  • Michelin “puncture-proof” tires
  • Maximal speed: 112 mph

From October 4 to 7, 1986, Pope John Paul II visited Lyon, traveling from Eurexpo to Gerland. This visit and its two massive gatherings at Eurexpo (the Mass for the beatification of Father Antoine Chevrier—350,000 people) and Gerland (a dialogue with young people—50,000 people) left a lasting impression, as did the concert by Jean-Michel Jarre held at Fourvière for the occasion.

Welcomed by French President François Mitterrand (1916–1996) on the tarmac at Lyon-Satolas Airport, Pope John Paul II (1978–2005) would use a car specially equipped for him and his travels.