Historic Monument Built for the 1900 World Fair
Four architects designed this neoclassical structure on the site of the old Palais de l'Industrie.
The building sits between the Champs-Élysées and the Seine River. Paris protected it as a historic monument in 2000.
World-Class Art Exhibitions
The Grand Palais ranks among Paris's busiest venues for exhibitions and artistic events. You'll find major shows featuring art world legends.
The National Galleries display works by Picasso, Renoir, Gauguin, and Irving Penn. Two exhibitions often run at the same time.
The venue has hosted groundbreaking exhibitions by Richard Serra, the Fauves, and other renowned artists over 130+ years.
Glass Roof Architecture
The structure features large stone colonnades and an enormous glass roof. This creates bright, open spaces for displays.
The impressive glass roof and vast interior spaces make it one of Paris's most anticipated cultural sites.
Recent Renovations & 2024 Olympics
The Grand Palais reopened in 2024 after major renovations, offering visitors a renewed experience.
The building played a central role in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
What You Can See Today
- Art exhibitions featuring master artists
- Cultural events and fairs
- Historic Beaux Arts and Art Nouveau architecture
- Natural light streaming through the famous glass ceiling
For over a century, the Grand Palais has reflected major artistic, scientific, and social movements.
Practical Information
Location: Between Champs-Élysées and Seine River, Paris
What Makes It Special:
- Historic 1900 architecture
- Major art exhibitions
- Glass roof engineering marvel
- Cultural heritage site
Current Status: Open with ongoing exhibitions and events
You can experience over 120 years of Parisian cultural history under one magnificent glass roof. The Grand Palais continues to showcase world-class art in a building that itself stands as a masterpiece of French architecture.
