Grande Arche de la Défense
The huge Grand Arche de la Defense is designed as a modern version of the Arc de Triomphe
La Grand Arche de la Defense is found in the business district of La Defense in the commune of Puteaux, just west of Paris. It is also called the Grand Arche de la Fraternite or simply as La Grand Arche.
The Grande Arche de la Défense or simply Grand Arch is designed as a modern version of the Arc de Triomphe, only dedicated to humanity and humanitarian ideals rather than the military victories the Arc de Triomphe represents. It was designed by a Danish architect, Johann Otto von Spreckelsen, and a Danish engineer, Erik Reitzel. All architectural responsibilities were awarded to Paul Andreu when Spreckelsen resigned in 1986.
The Grande Arche de la Défense does not stand on its own. It is the end of a line of monuments that runs through Paris known as the Axe historique. It also forms a secondary line with the Eiffel Tower and the Tour Montparnasse, the two highest buildings in Paris.
It is approximately a cube with a width of 108m, a height of 110m and a depth of 112m — a massive structure when seen up close. It is angled at 6.33 degrees, an angle that is similar to the angle of the Louvre which forms the other end of the Axe historique. This angle was made necessary as a result of the various public transport systems that run below it. It was the only way that an adequate foundation could be laid. The Grand Arche de la Defense is made from a pre-stressed concrete frame that has been covered in glass and Carrara marble.
The Grand Arche de la Defense is not only a tourist attraction. It additionally houses some government offices on two of its sides.
It is worth noting that it is possible to see the Arc de Triomphe from the Grand Arche de la Defense on a clear day. This is definitely a sight worth seeing if you have the time. You will not be able to access the roof however since access was closed to the public following an accident in the elevators to the roof in April 2010. Despite this, the Grand Arche de la Defense is definitely worth taking a look at.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesGrande Arche de la Défense Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: 1 Parv. de la Défense, 92800 Puteaux, France
Grande Arche de la Défense Reviews
Rated
out of 5 You have a nice connectivity from here. There are a lot of shops here to explore. You can come with public transportation or your own car. It is convenient. It’s a huge area. In November the Christmas market has also started.
Deepsikha Majhi - 3 weeks ago
Impressive but I did not connect with this architectural feat.
It is big and if big is beautiful then it is beautiful.
Unfortunately it did not make anything vibrate in me and I was actually indifferent to it.
The esplanade on the contrary is impressive and the crowd of people sitting there make it a place worth visiting.
Dan Maarek - a month ago
Located just outside the la defense, it looks best at sunset or sunrise. The pictures made from far particularly captures great view. It is not as touristic as the arche de triumph but still its nice to see as you are out of la defense station. Lot of restaurants and Westfield’s mall just adjacent to it. Nice places allocated with open bars during summer . Sure enjoyable for walks and run if you are staying there on business assignments or short weekend stay
Mamata Bait - 5 months ago
The Grande Arche de la Defense is an incredible structure and is worth visiting. The way it aligns with the Arc de Triomphe, and how it is in La Defense makes it super cool. It has nice views of Paris and is great to have a seat and relax. I recommend coming here if you are visiting Paris.
Scott - a month ago
La Grande Arche, located in La Défense, Paris’s business district, is a remarkable modern monument that stands as a symbol of France’s architectural ambition and innovation. Completed in 1989 and designed by Danish architect Johann Otto von Spreckelsen, the arch was envisioned as a 20th-century counterpart to the historic Arc de Triomphe. Unlike its traditional predecessor, La Grande Arche is a strikingly modern structure, embodying minimalism and geometric precision.
The building’s cubic form is both monumental and minimalist, stretching 110 meters high and wide. Its exterior, clad in white Carrara marble and glass, reflects the sky and the city, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. The void in the center of the arch, large enough to fit Paris’s Notre-Dame Cathedral, offers a unique perspective, framing views of the city from different angles.
Functionally, La Grande Arche is more than just a monument. It houses offices, a museum, and an observation deck that offers stunning panoramic views of Paris, extending along the historic axis that links it to the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre. The roof terrace is a hidden gem, providing a tranquil spot amidst the bustling business district, ideal for enjoying the cityscape.
While La Grande Arche might seem imposing and stark compared to the traditional elegance of central Paris, it has its own appeal. It symbolizes France’s forward-looking spirit and its willingness to embrace modernity while respecting its historical context. The contrast between La Défense’s sleek skyscrapers and the arch’s monumental simplicity creates a compelling visual experience. Whether you’re an architecture lover or simply exploring Paris, La Grande Arche is a fascinating site that showcases the city’s evolution and ambition.
Jayajith Menon - 3 months ago
Directions
Metro / RER / Tram Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
M1 or RER-A or T2 | La Défense | 0 minutes |
How to get to Grande Arche de la Défense by Metro / RER / Tram
By Metro, RER-A or Tram: exit at La Défense Station and you are there.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Grande Arche de la Défense:
Photo Gallery
Video
Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.