The Pompidou Centre, one of the most recognisable buildings in Paris, has been called the 'inside-out building' and has been unfavourably compared to an 'oil refinary' due to its 'exoskeletal' design.
The building's functional parts - pipes, ducts, escalators, steel supporting frame, which would normally remain hidden from view, run along the outside of the building highlighted in bright primary colours.
A competition was held in 1971 for a new cultural centre and of the 650+ entrees the winning submission was submitted by a trio of architects - Richard Rogers (British), Renzo Piano and Gianfranco Franchini (Italian). It opened to the public in 1977.
The building was initially a cause of controversy, because its high-tech architecture was being erected in the historic Beaubourg district. But the new centre was an instant success!
The Pompidou Centre is home to Musée National d'Art Moderne (National Museum of Modern Art), which has a large collection of 20th- and 21st-century art. Amongst other attractions in the complex is a large public library, Center for Industrial Design, and cafes and bookshop.
In front of the Pompidou Centre is an open space which is used by street performers, bands, caricature and sketch artists; and many other events. The surrounding area has many cafes and restaurants.
Opening Hours
Mon, Wed - Sun: 11am-9pm
Closed: Tuesdays, 1 May
Prices
Museum: 10 Euro (12 Euro May - Aug)
Other attractions fees differ!
Address
Rue Saint-Martin,
75004 Paris
How to Get There:
Métro: Station - Rambuteau on line 11
External Links
Official website for the Pompidou Centre
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