VISIT THE INSTITUT DU MONDE ARABE

A key symbol of cultural dialogue

Located on the banks of the Seine, the Institut du Monde Arabe is a cultural centre, a museum and a meeting place for French and Arab cultures. Its modern façade, adorned with mechanical moucharabiehs, is an emblematic work of architecture designed by Jean Nouvel.

Why visit?

It's the ideal place to discover the richness and diversity of the Arab world through its arts, traditions, history and innovations. The temporary exhibitions are renowned for their quality, and the panoramic terrace offers one of the most beautiful views of Paris and Notre-Dame.

A brief history and anecdotes

The Institute was inaugurated in 1987, the fruit of a partnership between France and 22 Arab countries. Its southern façade is made up of 240 metal moucharabiehs that open and close automatically according to the light, recalling the traditional shading devices used in Islamic architecture.

What can you do there?

- Explore the museum's permanent and temporary collections
- Enjoy the panoramic terrace with views over Notre-Dame and the Seine
- Discover the library and its specialised collections
- Attend conferences, concerts and film screenings
- Enjoy mint tea in the Lebanese restaurant on the top floor

Where is it?

📍 1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard, 75005 Paris
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice

- Allow 1h30 to 2h for the complete visit
- Free admission for under-26s resident in the EU (excluding temporary exhibitions)
- Free access to the terrace

To discover around

- Jardin des Plantes
- Mosque of Paris
- Quai Saint-Bernard and its open-air dances
- Île Saint-Louis

Audioguide

🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the Institut du Monde Arabe on History Guide City Paris!
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