Centre Georges Pompidou, National art museum in Saint-Merri, Paris, France
The Centre Georges Pompidou is a national art museum in Saint-Merri, Paris, defined by its technical architecture with external pipe systems. The colored conduits run along the facade and leave the interior free for exhibition spaces and public areas.
The French president commissioned the construction of this cultural center in 1969, which was completed by 1977 following designs by architects Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano. The project transformed the old district and created a new space for contemporary art in the city.
The building carries the name of the French president who initiated it, and Parisians often call it simply Beaubourg. Its open plaza in front attracts street performers and visitors who gather on the steps and watch urban life unfold around them.
Access is through a long escalator on the outside that runs diagonally upward and offers a view over the rooftops. The center is open most days of the week, with a rest day on Tuesday.
The air conditioning is marked with blue pipes, while water lines appear in green and electrical cables run in yellow. Safety systems can be identified by the red lines that remain visible along the entire length.
Location: Quartier Saint-Merri
Inception: 1977
Founders: Georges Pompidou
Architects: Richard Rogers, Renzo Piano
Official opening: January 31, 1977
Architectural style: high-tech architecture
Height: 42 m
Length: 166 m
Width: 60 m
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Address: Rue Beaubourg
Opening Hours: Wednesday 11:00-21:00; Thursday 11:00-23:00; Friday-Monday 11:00-21:00
Phone: +33144781233
Website: https://centrepompidou.fr
GPS coordinates: 48.86064,2.35224
Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:02
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A landmark of the city that was erected in honor of Contemporary Art. Sometimes very (too specialized) exhibitions. Note that its renovation will start in September 2025.
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