Moulin Rouge Restores Iconic Windmill for Torch Relay

Paris' iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret has successfully restored its famed red windmill, just in time for the Olympic torch relay on July 15. The windmill's sails had inexplicably collapsed after a show in April, also damaging part of the cabaret's illuminated sign, but fortunately, no one was injured, and the structure was not deemed to be in danger. A special ceremony featuring can-can dancing was held to mark the restoration. The Moulin Rouge, an emblem of the Montmartre neighborhood, celebrates its 135th anniversary this year and is a significant tourist attraction, drawing 600,000 spectators annually. Its windmill was first illuminated on October 6, 1889, and the venue was immortalized in the 2001 Baz Luhrmann film musical.