Grand Palais, Paris
In 1892 the President of the French Republic, Sadi Carnot, decided to organise the 1900 Universal Exhibition (or World Fair) in Paris, so he put into action the building of both the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais. The two palaces were designed together with the intention of extending the perspective of the Invalides on the Right Bank. With work beginning on the Grand Palais in 1897, it was an immense project to complete by the 1900 World Fair.
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The Grand Palais and the 1900 World Fair
The Grand Palais was built on the existing site of the Palais de l'Industrie, which had been constructed for the 1855 World Fair. More than 200 metres long, the boldness of the glass roof and its metallic structure is striking. The architecture is typical of the Belle Époque.
Since 1900 it has housed many artistic events, including the Salon de l'Automobile and the famous book fair, the Salon du Livre. As well as permanent displays, the Palais hosts temporary exhibitions. After a recent and very extensive four-year renovation, the Grand Palais is now opening a new-chapter in its history.
Location: Grand Palais, Avenue Winston-Churchill, 75008, Paris
Petit Palais, Paris
The Petit Palais, also built as mentioned above for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. The Petit Palais is the masterpiece of architect Charles Girault.
The Palace is home to a fine collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and objets d'art dating from antiquity. The Palace is also located on Avenue Winston-Churchill, which was formerly named Avenue Nicolas II.
Location: Petit Palais, Avenue Winston-Churchill, 75008, Paris
What to See Nearby
When visiting either the Grand Palais or the Petit Palais, you'll notice how Pont Alexandre III is similarly ornate in it's design, and seems to connect both the Grand and Petit Palaces with the Champs-Élysées and the Invalides. That's because the stunning arch bridge was designed to do just that, give order to the perspective between the Champs-Élysées and Invalides.
Regarded as the most ornate bridge in the city, it was also an architectural feat of its time, in that it crosses the Seine in a single arch. Built around the same time as the Palaces (1900), the bridge honours the friendship between Russia and France at its time of construction.
Classified in 1975 as a French historical monument it's a popular bridge being close to many tourist attractions, and of course, it's incredibly stunning itself. The lamps are works of art and you can see photos of them in our post Paris the City of Light here.
A great guide book that helps me navigate where to go and what to do in Paris is the DK Paris (Travel Guide).
Check websites for both the Grand Palais and Petit Palais to see what upcoming exhibitions and events they will be holding.
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