Institut Océanographique de Paris

The Institut Océanographique de Paris is a Renaissance Revival research building at the intersection of Rue Saint-Jacques and Rue Gay-Lussac, clad in brick and stone. Inside, it houses specialized laboratories and two lecture halls for scientific work and teaching.

The building was founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco in 1906 and completed in 1911, underscoring its importance for European ocean research. It emerged during a period when oceanography was growing as a scientific field.

The institute shapes daily academic life in the Latin Quarter with visitors regularly using its elegant spaces and lecture halls. The decorations and architecture reflect the importance that ocean research holds in France.

The building is conveniently situated in the Latin Quarter, reachable by nearby public transport and within walking distance of other museums. The area is well signposted and easy to navigate, though streets are narrow and cobblestoned.

A double arch connects the building to the Institute of Geography, symbolizing the relationship between Earth and ocean. This architectural link is unknown to many visitors and gives the place a special connection to neighboring scientific spaces.

Location: 5th arrondissement of Paris

Architects: Henri-Paul Nénot

Website: http://oceano.mc/en

GPS coordinates: 48.84440,2.34236

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:48