Paris - La Défense

 
In the west of the city, at the end of Avenue Charles-de-Gaulle, which continues the main east-west axis of Paris (Champs Elysées Arc de Triomphe-Avenue de la Grande-Armée), is La Défense, a complex of highrise blocks developed since the mid 60s. The name La Défense recalls the bitter resistance by French forces in this area during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. Nowadays it is seen as heralding Paris's entry into the 21st century.

Must-see attractions nearby:
The layout of this new business district of futuristic aspect gives effect to the two principles of urban planning, functionality and the separation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, laid down by Le Corbusier in the 30s. Motor traffic is confined to a ring road round the outside of the district and the Métro and ; RER run underground, there are expanses of open space and gardens between the skyscrapers, and the area round the Esplanade de la Défense is diversified by the multiple jets of the Agam Fountain and works of sculpture such as the "Grand Toscano" (by Igor Mitoraj, 1983) on the Plan de la Coupole.
Address: La Grande Arche de la Défense, 1 parvis de la Défense, F-92040 Paris, France
Hours:
April 1 to September 30: 10am-8pm
October 1 to March 31: 10am-7pm
Tips: Last admission one hour before closing.
Facilities: Gift shop
Transit: Metro: Esplanade de la Defense; RER: Grande Arche de la Defense

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La Défense in Paris.La Défense in Paris.
The highrises of La Defense seen at night in Paris.The highrises of La Defense seen at night in Paris.
Unique structure at La Defense, Paris.Unique structure at La Defense, Paris.
The Great Arch of la Défense in Paris.The Great Arch of la Défense in Paris.
Inside the Grand Arch at La Defense in Paris.Inside the Grand Arch at La Defense in Paris.
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