Centre Pompidou, also known as Pompidou Center, was built from 1971 to 1977. The compound is located in the Beaubourg part of Paris' 4th arrondissement. This center, built by GTM, has a land area of 5 acres and floor area of more than 103,000 square meters. This massive structure was designed by Renzo Piano, Richard and Su Rogers, and Gianfranco Franchini and was actually created as a modern piece of architecture. The New York Times described the center as one that turns the world of architecture upside down. This is actually an understatement considering that the center was a revolutionary structure created from colored tubes that are now used for mechanical systems such as plumbing, electrical wiring, climate control, and safety devices.

At present, the Centre Pompidou is home to IRCAM (Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique) or the European center for acoustic and music research, the Musee National d'Art Moderne, and the Bibliotecque Publique d'Information (an enormous public library). Although the center was named after French President Georges Pompidou, the locals call this place as Beaubourg because of its location. From its opening date on January 31, 1977, over 190 million people have visited this modern complex.

The cost of constructing the Centre Pompidou reportedly reached 993 million Francs in 1972. This is not at all surprising because over 15,000 tons of steel were used for its framework and several thousands of square meters of glass surfaces for its beautiful façade. Meanwhile, its renovation, which was done from 1996 to 2000, also proved to be costly. Reports say that it took 576 million Francs to finish the project. The vision of then President Georges Pompidou for this ultra-modern structure was to be a one-stop modern cultural institution where theater and visual arts would be propagated and shared.

Whatever your modern art preferences are, you will surely find one in Centre Pompidou that will satisfy your curiosity and interest. In fact, right at the entrance of the museum you will be able to enjoy performances from jugglers, mimes and other street performers. During spring, you can also find a temporary miniature carnival at the entrance of the complex. Here you will find sketch and caricature artists, live bands, and even skateboarding competitions. Truly, your visit to this institute of modern arts will be unforgettable and entertaining. By the way, the center is open from Wednesdays to Mondays and is closed only on May 1 and on Tuesdays.

More Articles