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
Official Website: Grande Arche de la Défense
Grande Arche de la Défense Reviews
Rated out of 5
Grande Arche de la Défense is a remarkable modern landmark with a unique architectural design. The area around it is spacious, clean, and perfect for walking and taking photos. It offers a great view of the surrounding business district and is a must-see spot when visiting Paris. Overall, it was a very enjoyable and impressive place to visit. 🌆📸✨
Bakht Said - 3 months ago
After many trips to Paris I finally got out to the grand arch. Wonderful piece or architecture that was planned out to be in line with rhe arc de triomophe! Shopping mall right there making the plaza a cool place to hang out under the arch or take care of your shopping business. Right off the RER A.
The K Green Show - 2 weeks ago
La Défense is an incredible contrast to the historic center of Paris! Standing at the base of the Grande Arche, you really feel the massive scale of this modern 'open cube' design. I loved walking along the Esplanade to see the contemporary sculptures, like César's Thumb, and the futuristic skyscrapers. It's also a great spot for shopping at Westfield Les 4 Temps. Seeing the direct line all the way back to the Arc de Triomphe from here is a must for any architecture fan. A stunning, modern face of Paris! 🇫🇷🏙️✨
KAKARLA - 3 months ago
Visited La Grande Arche de la Défense and it was really impressive to see in person. The architecture is striking — a huge modern monument that perfectly frames the sky and stands out among the skyscrapers of La Défense. It feels very different from the historic landmarks in central Paris but just as memorable.
Walking around the large open plaza gives you a great sense of the scale of the structure. The design is clean, geometric, and incredibly photogenic from almost every angle. It’s especially impressive standing directly beneath it and looking up through the enormous square arch.
The surrounding area is lively with shops, offices, and plenty of places to explore, making it a great stop if you’re visiting the La Défense district. Definitely worth seeing if you enjoy modern architecture and want a different perspective of Paris.
Jack Jack - 3 months ago
A modern version of the Arc de Triomphe straight down the Av. Charles de Gaulle at the La Défense metro station. I didn’t realise just how large this was going to be and I’m so glad it had recently become lit up for the evenings so you could really appreciate the scale, the night after we visited the lights were off again. Definitely worth a visit to see the more modern part of down town Paris. All glass and metal in comparison to stone.
Jamie Higgs-Dey - 7 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.
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Photo Gallery
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A close up of the stairs leading to the Arche de la Défense add a sense of scale to this huge monument cc licensed photo by Justin A. Wilcox -
Photo Credit: Daniel_Hache - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Seb MAR 2 - cc license via Flickr
