Galeries nationales du Grand Palais

The Galeries nationales du Grand Palais is a large exhibition space crowned by a distinctive glass dome within a Beaux-Arts building near the Champs-Élysées. The soaring interior beneath this dome accommodates major artworks and rotating collections that span multiple artistic traditions.

The building opened in 1900 as part of the World's Fair, intended to showcase French artistic achievements to visitors from around the globe. Later it served as a military hospital during World War I before returning to its role as an exhibition space.

The galleries present rotating exhibitions that bring together artworks from different periods and cultures under one roof. Visitors encounter both historical masterpieces and contemporary works from around the world displayed side by side.

The location on a major thoroughfare makes it easily accessible for most visitors. Plan to spend adequate time exploring, as the exhibition spaces are generous in size and require unhurried viewing.

During World War I, artists decorated the patient rooms with paintings when the building served as a military hospital. This unusual blend of art and care demonstrates how creative expression was used to support healing during wartime.

Location: 8th arrondissement of Paris

Inception: 1964

GPS coordinates: 48.86577,2.31248

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:58