Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHT
INSTITUT DU MONDE ARABE
The Arab World Institute was jointly founded by France and 18 Middle Eastern and
North African nations in 1980, with the aim of promoting cross-cultural dialogue. In
addition to hosting concerts, film screenings and a research centre, the stunning land-
mark is also home to a new museum and temporary exhibition space.
You certainly can't miss the building: architect Jean Nouvel took his inspiration from
traditional latticed wood windows, creating thousands of modern
mashrabiya,
photo-
electrically sensitive apertures built into the glass walls that allow you to see out
without being seen. The apertures are opened and closed by electric motors in order
to regulate the amount of light and heat that reach the institute's interior.
The overhauled muuseuum (7th to 4th floors) introduces elements from disparate
time periods and cultures, focusing on art, artisanship and science. You'll find
everything from pre-Islamic ceramics to ancient astronomical instruments, and from
regional music displays to Arabic calligraphy.
From the top (9th) floor oobservatiion t
n terrace, incredible views stretch across the
Seine as far as Sacré-Cœur. There's a panoramic restaurant here, as well as a cafeter-
ia/tearoom (no views) and decent cafe (ground floor).
