Centre Pompidou

Overview

The Centre Pompidou is Europe's most important museum of modern and contemporary art. Instantly recognizable by its radically "inside-out" architecture, it sits boldly in the historic Beaubourg neighborhood, functioning as a vibrant cultural hub.

Highlights

• The Architecture: All functional elements (pipes, escalators, vents) are color-coded and placed on the exterior of the building to free up interior exhibition space.
• The Modern Art Collection: Unparalleled works from the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring Picasso, Kandinsky, Matisse, and Dalí.
• The Escalator Views: The external glass-enclosed "caterpillar" escalator offers fantastic, rising views of the Parisian skyline.

History

Conceived by President Georges Pompidou to reverse Paris's decline in the contemporary art world compared to New York. The incredibly daring design by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers was fiercely hated by traditionalists upon opening in 1977, but quickly became beloved by the public.

Visitor Tips

• The Piazza: The sloping square in front of the museum is notoriously packed with street performers, portrait artists, and students relaxing.
• Rooftop Access: You can buy a cheaper "View" ticket just to take the escalators to the top without entering the museum.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.