In 1987, Jean Kiffer, deputy mayor of Amnéville proposed a new entertainment centre for Lorraine to host musical and sporting events.

However, these plans were abandoned with the organization later opening Zénith de Nancy in Maxéville, 1993.

Known as Salle Thermal, the original plans were to construct a casino to include an open-air amphitheater seating 5,400.

In 1989, plans were changed to now construct an indoor arena, seating at least 8,000.

The arena opened to the public in December 1990, with its first event held 4 January 1991; a concert by Patricia Kaas.