Cité de l'architecture et du patrimoine, Architecture museum at Palais de Chaillot, Paris, France
The Cité de l'architecture et du patrimoine in the Palais de Chaillot displays French architectural heritage through collections of large stone sculptures, wall paintings, stained glass windows, and modern building designs. The exhibitions spread across several galleries where you can view original pieces and full-scale reconstructions of significant French structures.
The institution began in 1879 influenced by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, an architect devoted to preserving French building traditions. A major renovation in the 2000s transformed the space into the modern museum you see today.
The collection tells the story of how French architecture reflected the needs and values of different times. You can see actual carved stonework, pieces of cathedral windows, and building models that show how people lived and what mattered to them.
Wear comfortable shoes since the collections are spread across multiple levels and there is a lot to explore. It helps to check which exhibitions are on when you visit so you can plan your time accordingly.
One section displays a full-size reconstruction of an apartment designed by Le Corbusier in the 1950s. This replica gives you a direct sense of how this influential architect organized and designed living spaces.
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