We would assume that many of you have been to France, and even more to Paris. How can you go wrong, either way, especially with the latter? But we wondered recently about how many visitors have actually wandered around and discovered one of the sometimes unsung and and overlooked gems – the Centre Pompidou. It can be easy to miss if your eyes are bedazzled while gazing upon other Paris delights. But it’s definitely one not to miss.
First and foremost, the building itself is a work of art. Designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, the Pompidou Center features an unconventional inside-out design, with its structural elements, such as escalators, pipes, and colorful exterior, all exposed. This architectural style was revolutionary when it was built in the 1970s and still captivates visitors today. Many other buildings have pilfered the look of this stunning edifice.
Just as thrilling is that when you finally step inside, The Pompidou Center houses one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world. Its vast collection includes works by iconic artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Kandinsky, Duchamp, and many others. Visitors can explore a wide range of artistic movements, from Cubism and Surrealism to Pop Art and Conceptual Art.
So what are you waiting for? Above and beyond seeing it outside, why not discover all of its charms? The Bibliothèque Publique d’Information (or BPI) is a library inside the Centre Pompidou, in the heart of Paris. Like all libraries, it has reading spaces, encyclopaedic collections, etc, but it also hosts cultural activities (conferences, debates, cinema screenings of documentaries … ) Also, temporary exhibitions are regularly held there. The BPI also offers tours allowing the public to familiarize themselves with the layout of the library and the services it offers. Entry is free for all. Click here to book your tour.
When we visit Paris, we love to stay at the petit and perfect Hotel du Champ de Mars. Click here to see why.
Take the train to Paris. Do as the Europeans do. Chose RailEurope. Click here to book.