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Paris Capitale vous accompagne dans la compréhension de la démarche de Napoléon III sur la transformation de Paris durant le Second Empire (1852 - 1870). Nous vous invitons à découvrir le Palais Garnier Napoleon III At the start of the Second Empire (1852 - 1870) Napoleon III undertook to modernize Paris. Napoleon III by Franz Xaver Winterhalter Under the influence of Napoleon III, Paris Capital underwent a radical metamorphosis thanks to the joint efforts of Baron Haussmann and Adolphe Alphand. The modernist ambition of Napoleon III and the lasting impact of the town planning work carried out by Haussmann and Alphand. They remodeled the appearance of the city, creating large boulevards, green spaces and emblematic places, while increasing the surface area of Paris through the annexation of neighboring municipalities. The meeting of 4 exceptional men Baron Haussmann Napoleon 3 Adolphe Alphand The architect Davioud The architect Gabriel Davioud left a significant mark on the urban landscape of Paris in the 19th century. His work left its mark on the city through various achievements, a large part of which still survives today. Among his creations, we find benches, baskets, kiosks, fountains, candelabra, display posts, grilles, balustrades, exedra, piers, various shelters and guard houses. His creations also transformed the decor of Parisian streets, with fountains such as the Saint-Michel fountain and that of the Garden of the Great Explorers. Davioud designed the Théâtre du Châtelet (built between 1860 and 1862) as well as the Théâtre lyrique, which later became the Théâtre de la Ville. He also participated in the design of the Bois de Boulogne, Buttes-Chaumont and Montsouris Park. In short, Gabriel Davioud was at the same time urban planner, landscaper and architect. Its street furniture, its fountains and its theaters contributed to giving Paris its unity and its quality of use, leaving a lasting imprint on the city to the present day. The Davioud bench, first presented at the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1855, is an iconic example of its innovative and elegant design.

Les Brasseries historiques Parisiennes incontournables. Parisian Breweries Exceptional emblematic places in Paris La Tour d'Argent 15, quai de la Tournelle - Paris 5ème. Although the exact date of inauguration is subject to debate, the establishment is often cited as one of the oldest restaurants in France. It is said to have been founded in 1582 by a great chef named Rourteau. The restaurant is famous for its panoramic view of the Seine and Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral from the Île de la Cité. Legend has it that King Henry III discovered the fork there, an instrument with three spades, used by Italian gentlemen seated in the establishment. Louis XIV and his court would also have frequented this place, and Cardinal Richelieu would have appreciated a goose with prunes served here. The restaurant is renowned for its specialties such as Duck Tour d’Argent, Blood Duck, Wild Pike Quenelles and Crêpes Mademoiselle. Since its foundation, the Tour d’Argent has undergone numerous developments and remains at the highest level of world gastronomy. If you have the chance, I highly recommend enjoying a summit gastronomic experience there. Le Proscope The oldest café in Paris. Founded in 1686, by the Sicilian Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli. Procope is considered the oldest Café-Glacier in the capital. Café de la Paix 5, place de l'Opéra - Paris 9th Café de la Paix was created by brothers Auguste and Antoine Chartier in 1862. Since then, it has become an emblematic place in Paris, welcoming generations of Parisians. The Café de la Paix is located opposite the Opéra Garnier. It is at the crossroads of Parisian artistic life. Here, tourists, dancers, opera singers, writers and actors from neighboring theaters rub shoulders. This legendary place has embodied Parisian chic for over 150 years. Café de la Paix offers classic French cuisine, with revisited dishes such as foie gras, sole and onion gratinée. You can also stop for a coffee on the terrace or enjoy a homemade pastry. It is a place steeped in history where you could meet political, literary and artistic figures. Brasserie Mollard 115, rue Saint-Lazare - Paris 8th Brasserie Mollard is the oldest brewery in Paris It was founded in 1867. Classified as a historic monument, it offers a unique setting composed of ceramics, mosaics and Art Nouveau style ceilings. Brasserie Lipp 151, boulevard Saint-germain - Paris 6th. In 1880, Brasserie Lipp opened its doors thanks to its founder, Leonard Lipp. For more than 143 years, Brasserie Lipp has been anchored in the cultural fabric of Paris. Nestled in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Brasserie Lipp is a true historical gem. Maxim's 3, rue Royale - Paris 8th Maxim's Restaurant was opened on May 21, 1893. Its founders are Maxime Gaillard and Georges Everaert. The clientele is worldly and elegant. The establishment was redeveloped for the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1900 at the initiative of the maître d'hôtel Eugène Cornuché. The inspiration for its decorations comes from fauna, flora and feminine charm. Le Fouquet's 99, avenue des Champs-Élysées - Paris 8th Its name comes from its owner, Louis Fouquet, who developed and made this place famous. Fouquet's was inaugurated on September 28, 1898. The ground floor room of Fouquet's has been listed as a historic monument since 1990. With its mahogany decor, gilded chandeliers and portraits of cinema icons, Fouquet's offers a refined and glamorous gastronomic experience. Chef Pierre Gagnaire reinterprets the classics of French cuisine, offering dishes such as escargot, sole meunière and millefeuille. You are warmly invited to share a moment and reserve a table in the authentic atmosphere of this legendary place. Le Train Bleu Gare de Lyon - Place Louis Armand - Paris 12th The Blue Train was inaugurated in 1901. It was originally a station buffet which quickly attracted high society and artists. The Blue Train was named in 1963 to pay homage to the legendary Paris-Ventimiglia line which served the towns of the Côte D'Azur along the Mediterranean. Today, this majestic establishment offers an exceptional gastronomic experience, where the show takes place both in the kitchen and in the dining room. The menu offers traditional French cuisine, with particular attention to dishes with sauces, stews and broths. The room service is a real spectacle, with flaming and cutting carried out with precision by a brigade of passionate maîtres d'hôtel. Brasserie Vagenende 142, boulevard Saint-Germain - Paris 6th Brasserie Vagenende was founded in 1904 by brothers Edouard and Camille Chartier. It has retained its superb Art Nouveau decor, classified as a Historic Monument. There you will find beveled mirrors framed by arabesque woodwork, as well as beautiful painted ceramics. The Vagenende Brewery is a place steeped in history where you could meet political, literary and artistic figures. Bouillon Racine 3 rue Racine - Paris 6th Bouillon Racine was founded in 1906. It has been classified as a historic monument since 1995. It perpetuates the unique atmosphere of Paris in the 1900s. This famous “bouillon” (ancestor of Parisian brasseries) in Art Nouveau style was created by the Chartier brothers. Le Bouillon Julien 16, rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis - Paris 10th Bouillon Julien was inaugurated in 1906, its founder is Edouard Fournier. Le Bouillon Julien offers renowned cuisine in an exceptional Art Nouveau setting. La Belle Epoque 36, rue des Petits Champs - Paris 2nd La Belle Epoque was inaugurated in 1920, its founder is Edouard Fournier. This brasserie with its unique decor is a must-see for lovers of bistro cuisine. The menu offers traditional and trendy dishes, accompanied by a carefully chosen selection of wines. Don't miss the roast sea bass with its Jerusalem artichoke puree, caramelized endives and Noilly Prat emulsion, as well as the organic Norman beef fillet with Kampot pepper sauce and homemade mashed potatoes. And for desserts, the lemon basil tart and the enormous chocolate mousse are to share. La Coupole 102, boulevard du Montparnasse - Paris14th It was inaugurated on December 20, 1927 by the two creators Ernest Fraux and René Lafon. La Coupole has become an iconic place frequented by figures such as Jean Cocteau, Picasso, Simone de Beauvoir and Ernest Hemingway. La Coupole symbolizes the history of Montparnasse and offers French cuisine, seafood, and essential dishes from the great Parisian brasseries.

Les Monuments Historiques Parisiens sont des témoins de l’histoire et de l’architecture de Paris. Paris doit son charme et sa grandeur à ses bâtisseurs créatifs qui ont contribué à façonner la ville telle que nous la connaissons aujourd’hui. L’urbanisme haussmannien, caractérisé par ses larges boulevards et ses immeubles de style néo-classique, a permis de mettre en valeur les monuments historiques et les lieux emblématiques de Paris. Parisian Historical Monuments The Parisian Historical Monuments are witnesses to the history and architecture of Paris. Grand Palais Obélisque Tour Saint-Jacques Paris owes its charm and grandeur to its creative builders who helped shape the city as we know it today. Haussmannian town planning, characterized by its wide boulevards and its neo-classical style buildings, made it possible to highlight the historic monuments and emblematic places of Paris. Major roads, such as the Champs-Élysées and Boulevard Haussmann, offer majestic perspectives of sites like the Arc de Triomphe and the Opéra Garnier. The beauty of Paris lies in its harmonious blend of architecture, culture, gastronomy and art of living.

L’hôtel Prince de Galles est un établissement 5 étoiles situé 33 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, a intrigué et séduit ses clients depuis son ouverture en 1929. Le Prince de Galles reflète le mouvement Art déco de Paris, offrant sophistication et élégance. Il propose 159 chambres dont 44 suites, parfaitement conçues et aménagées avec tout le confort nécessaire. L’hôtel réinvente le brunch avec une nouvelle offre qui vous emmène dans un voyage culinaire d’exception. Prince of Wales, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris, a 5-star establishment located at 33 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, has intrigued and seduced its guests since its opening in 1929. The hotel is located on Avenue George-V, just a few steps from the emblematic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The Prince of Wales reflects the Art Deco movement of Paris, offering sophistication and elegance. It offers 159 rooms including 44 suites, perfectly designed and furnished with all the necessary comfort. Many rooms offer a panoramic view of the rooftops of Paris. The hotel's restaurant, managed by Norbert Tarayre, offers culinary recipes highlighting Paris and French bistronomy. The hotel opened its doors in 1929, and many personalities such as Winston Churchill, Marlene Dietrich and the King of Yugoslavia quickly became loyal guests. The Prince of Wales offers three exclusive suites The Golden Suite decorated with black and gold elements. The Saphir Suite with beige and blue tones The Lalique Suite by Patrick Hellmann, created in collaboration with the French glassmaker and crystal maker Lalique. Prince of Wales Brunch The hotel is reinventing brunch with a new offer that takes you on an exceptional culinary journey. If you are considering a stay in Paris, the Hôtel Prince de Galles could be an elegant and refined choice!

Les grands magasins historiques de Paris sont des lieux emblématiques qui ont façonné la vie commerçante et culturelle de la ville. Ces grands magasins ont tous une histoire riche et offrent des expériences de shopping uniques à Paris rendant incontournable votre visite. Grands Magasins de Paris The historic department stores of Paris are emblematic places which have shaped the commercial and cultural life of the city. These department stores all have a rich history and offer unique shopping experiences in Paris making your visit a must. Le Bon Marché Canopy Escalators Le Bon Marché is located at 24, rue de Sèvre Paris 7th near the Lutetia Hotel. Le Bon Marché opened its doors on November 18, 1852. It has a commercial area of approximately 50,000 m². Founded by Aristide Boucicaut, associated with the Videau brothers Le Bon Marché is considered the first department store in France and revolutionized consumption patterns at the time. Le Bon Marché stands out for its refined atmosphere and its high-end selection. Le Bon Marché offers a unique shopping experience where luxury and elegance coexist. The Grande Epicerie de Paris Located at the corner of rue du Bac and rue de Sèvre, Le Bon Marché opened the Comptoir de l'alimentation in 1923. La Grande Epicerie was founded in 1978. Three pivotal periods shape La Grande Épicerie de Paris 1988 – La Grande Épicerie de Paris is transformed and becomes a leading food store. 1999 – La Grande Epicerie de Paris begins a total renovation and a new graphic identity and positions itself as the true reference for gastronomy in Paris. 2013 - La Grande Épicerie de Paris celebrates its rebirth after 18 months of renovation. Enjoy a new experience that is always unique, revealing the know-how of the culinary professions, an ever more sophisticated selection of exceptional products – rare or traditional – and finally new worlds and services. The BHV Marais BHV Marais is an emblematic department store located at 52, rue de Rivoli Paris 4th. The BHV was inaugurated in 1856. With a commercial surface area of approximately 70,000 m², the BHV brought together under the same roof everything necessary to equip the person and the home, from decoration to fashion through beauty and DIY. Founded by the jewelry maker François-Xavier Ruel. Its rich history and reputation make it a must-see for shopping enthusiasts in Paris. Le Printemps Haussmann Coupole Printemps Haussmann is a department store located at 64, boulevard Haussmann Paris 9th. Printemps Haussmann was inaugurated on November 3, 1865. Jules Jaluzot and Jean-Alfred Duclos are at the origin of Printemps Haussmann. Despite its distance from the lively heart of Paris at the time, Jaluzot foresaw the growth of this district and the opportunity provided by the proximity of the Saint Lazare station. The very first Printemps store has large windows which reveal vast galleries and seems to form a sort of large covered market supported by columns. Printemps Haussmann is an architectural masterpiece of the 19th and 20th centuries. The facades and roofs (except the modern elevation) of the old stores (current Printemps de l'Homme) have been listed as historic monuments since January 15, 1975. Its renovation of the facades was undertaken to preserve the memory and identity of the place. The store is a true Parisian emblem offering a typically Parisian shopping experience. It is home to leading fashion, beauty and home decor brands. Distributed by theme throughout the store's three buildings, these brands occupy 27 levels and 45,500 square meters in total. Since the beginning of 2019, Printemps Haussmann has been offering the general public a behind-the-scenes tour through a guided tour, going from the store's underground passages to the roof garden offering a breathtaking view of the capital, via the famous Art Deco dome. I highly recommend that you take a trip to Printemps Haussmann to discover this emblematic place of fashion and shopping. La Samaritaine Canopy La Samaritaine is located at 19, rue de la Monnaie Paris 1er facing the Pont-Neuf. La Samaritaine has been the heartbeat of the Parisian capital since 1870. Its commercial area is approximately 48,000 m2. Founded by Ernest Cognacq and his wife Marie-Louise Jaÿ. This collection of department stores is anchored in the collective imagination linked to Paris. Its emblematic slogan, “You can find everything at La Samaritaine”, still resonates in people’s memories. After 16 years of closure, the department store reopened in June 2021, offering a unique shopping experience. La Samaritaine is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture and its luxury department store. La Samaritaine is an emblematic monument of Parisian life, full of history and legends. The Galeries Lafayette Dome Galeries Lafayette located at 40, boulevard Haussmann Paris 9th is one of the most famous department stores in the world. The sales area of Galeries Lafayette is more than 70,000 m2. Galeries Lafayette was inaugurated in October 1912. Galeries Lafayette is famous for its elegance, luxury brands and glass dome. The Coupole of Galeries Lafayette is an iconic architectural gem rivaling historic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe or the Sacré-Cœur. Galeries Lafayette is a department store brand belonging to the Galeries Lafayette group. Their story dates back to the end of the 19th century when Théophile Bader and his cousin Alphonse Kahn joined forces to take over a “novelty store”. They opened their first store in 1894 at 1, rue La Fayette in a 70 square meter premises that they called “Les Galeries”. Both are Alsatian Jewish traders from the world of clothing. Their store, initially 70 square meters, gradually expanded with the purchase of the entire building three years after its opening. The store was then renamed “Galeries Lafayette”. In 1905, the buildings at 38, 40 and 42 boulevard Haussmann, as well as 15 rue de la Chaussée d'Antin, were also acquired. A huge dome was built in 1912. The Dome is a remarkable example of Art Nouveau. Three iconic artists collaborated on its creation Ferdinand Chanut for geometry and structure. Jacques Gruber for the stained glass windows. Louis Majorelle for the ironwork. The current stained glass windows form an immense flower made up of 10 beams, covering a total area of 1000 m². The Dome of Galeries Lafayette is a work of art that tells the history of Paris and enchants all those who contemplate it. An average of 37 million visitors visit Galeries Lafayette each year. These figures demonstrate the exceptional appeal of this iconic Paris department store. Whether you are a fan of fashion, beauty, gastronomy or simply curious, a visit to Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is an unmissable experience during your stay in the capital.

Parisian Passages The Parisian passages, true architectural gems, are emblematic places of the French capital. Galerie Colbert Passage des Princes Typically, these passages form galleries cut through buildings or are built at the same time as the buildings. They are covered by a glass roof which allows overhead lighting giving these spaces their particular light. Designed in the 19th century as part of the development of covered passages, they were shopping arcades housing boutiques and cafes. These elegant and protected spaces connected the most sought-after districts of Paris. These places were places for meetings, sometimes gallant, and for purchases, thanks to the numerous businesses located there. Under the Second Empire, the city had up to 150 passages and galleries, making them essential elements of Parisian life. Explore these hidden treasures of the City of Lights by strolling from passage to passage, particularly in the 2nd arrondissement.

Passage Verdeau Passage Verdeau connects 6, rue de la Grange Batelière to 31, bis rue du Faubourg Montmartre 75009 Paris. It was designed by the architect François Jean Delannoy. Passage Verdeau was inaugurated in 1847. The passage measures approximately 75 meters long by 3.75 meters wide and is characterized by a wrought iron glass roof which lets in natural light. It is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Weekends from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Le Jardin des Plantes est un lieu emblématique qui allie nature, science et Histoire. Le Jardin des plantes réunie un zoo d'exception, la Galerie de Géologie et de Minéralogie, la Galerie de la Paléontologie et d'anatomie comparée, la Grande Galerie de l'évolution ainsi que des serres abritant une variété de plantes exotiques et tropicales. Garden of plants Formerly called the Royal Garden of Medicinal Plants, it was created in May 1635 by decision of Louis XIII with the aim of training future doctors and apothecaries. The Jardin des Plantes is located at 57, rue Cuvier Paris 5th covering an area of 27 hectares. Jardin des Plantes Great Gallery of Evolution The Jardin des Plantes de Paris has a fascinating history dating back to the 17th century. The initial estate included a castle and land near the Seine. It has evolved into a place of research, education and discovery for visitors from around the world. The Jardin des Plantes was officially inaugurated in 1640 after five years of work and necessary sowing. This historic park is a true botanical and cultural treasure, where the beauty of nature blends with a passion for science. It was designed as a place for walking open to the public, but above all as a space for observing and studying nature. Garden of plants Great Greenhouses Japanese Garden The Jardin des Plantes is a beautiful place in Paris, where you can stroll through gardens, visit galleries and observe animals. Great Gallery of Evolution Explore the diversity of life and the evolution of species in this iconic gallery. Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy Gallery Immerse yourself in the world of fossils and comparative anatomy. Geology and Mineralogy Gallery Discover the geological and mineralogical treasures in this fascinating gallery. Menagerie, Jardin des Plantes zoo Meet fascinating animals, like the recently arrived red pandas. Large Greenhouses of the Jardin des Plantes Explore greenhouses housing a variety of exotic and tropical plants.

Le Jardin des Tuileries situé dans le 1er arrondissement de Paris est un parc historique créé au XVIe siècle. Découvrez ses sculptures, son style à la Française et son lien avec le Louvre. Tuileries garden The Tuileries garden was created in the 16th century on the site of old tileries, from which it takes its name. The Tuileries Garden covers 25.5 hectares, making it the largest French-style garden in the capital, comparable to that of the Luxembourg Gardens (22.5 hectares). Louvre Museum The Tuileries Gardens, sometimes called the Tuileries Gardens in the plural, is a Parisian fenced park located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. In 1564, Catherine de Medici began the construction of the Tuileries Palace and the development of an Italian garden to the west up to the glacis of the enclosure (current Place de la Concorde). In 1664, Jean-Baptiste Colbert and Louis XIV ordered that the garden be completely redesigned by André Le Nôtre, who had already distinguished himself in Vaux-le-Vicomte. The Tuileries garden is open to the public and hosts various events such as the Rendez-vous aux jardins and the International Contemporary Art Fair (FIAC). Today it is part of the national domain of the Louvre and the Tuileries. It is bounded by the Louvre Palace to the southeast, Rue de Rivoli to the northeast, Place de la Concorde to the northwest and the Seine to the southwest. The Tuileries garden has been classified as a historic monument since 1914 and is part of the UNESCO world heritage site for the banks of the Seine. It is placed under the supervision of the Louvre Museum. In short, this emblematic garden of Paris combines history, beauty and relaxation for visitors and Parisians. Tuileries garden Statues that adorn the Tuileries Garden Fame riding Pegasus This statue, the work of Antoine Coysevox, is located at the entrance to the garden, on the Place de la Concorde side, it dominates the main gate. Statue of Diana with a Doe Created by Guillaume 1er Coustou, this statue is located in Allée de Diane, near the entrance on Rue de Rivoli. Venus Callipyge A statue of Venus, made by Aristide Maillol. Apollo pursuing Daphne This bronze statue is the work of Paul Belmondo. Cassandra putting herself under the protection of Pallas A statue of Aimé Millet, located around the small pond, near the Carrousel gardens. Cain having just killed his brother A stone statue of Henri Vidal. Atalante and Hippomene Two pendant statues, commissioned by Louis XIV for the park of the Château de Marly, respective works of Pierre Lepautre and Guillaume Coustou père. The Centaur Nessus kidnapping Deianira This marble statue was sculpted in 1892 and placed in the Tuileries in 1894. Sphinges des exèdres Two small pools, the north and south exedra, decorated with eight winged sphinxes. The Faun with the kid A marble statue, copied from an antique discovered in Rome, which once decorated the park of the Château de Marly. Eve A statue executed by Rodin in 1881. Autumn or Vertumnus A marble statue by François Barois, near the octagonal pool. Summer or Ceres A statue by Guillaume Coustou, representing the goddess of agriculture and cereals in Roman mythology. Tuileries garden

Paris, cradle of art and culture is home to emblematic museums that telle the history and creativity of humanity. Parisian Museums Paris, cradle of art and culture, is home to emblematic museums that tell the story the history and creativity of humanity. Musée du Louvre Arc de Triomphe Pyramide Inversée The Louvre has roots dating back to the 12th century, when King Philippe Auguste had it erected in 1190 a fortified castle to protect Paris. Charles V decided to make it a royal residence. Over the centuries, François I, Henri II, Charles IX, Henri IV, Louis XIII and Louis XIV made it evolve through numerous works. After his departure for Versailles in 1678, Louis XIV had sculptures installed in the Louvre Museum. The Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture organized its first exhibition in 1699. This marks the beginning of the Louvre's association with the visual arts. The Central Museum of Arts opened on August 10, 1793. Visitors can admire the royal collections of paintings and antiques free of charge. Following structural problems, it was closed from 1796 to 1801 for renovations. François Mitterrand, President of the Republic, launches a major modernization project which gives rise, among other things, to the great Pyramid of the Louvre. The Grand Louvre project consisted, after integration, of the Richelieu wing occupied by the Ministry finances to improve visitor circulation in the museum. The Louvre pyramid was built between 1985 and 1989. The first inauguration took place on March 4, 1988 and the second on March 29, 1989. The total area of the Louvre Museum is approximately 210,000 m². This makes it one of the largest museums in the world in terms of exhibition space. More than 35,000 works on display, ranging from Antiquity to modern art. With 72,735 m² of rooms and galleries, the Louvre is the largest art museum in the world, in front of the Hermitage Museum in Russia and the National Museum of China. The collections are divided into eight departments, covering Western art, ancient civilizations (Eastern, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan and Roman), the arts of the first Christians and those of Islam. It houses famous pieces such as Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the Victory of Samothrace and the Venus de Milo. The Louvre Museum is a major attraction that attracts millions of visitors each year. Musée d'Orsay The location of the museum was formerly occupied by the Palais d'Orsay, built from 1810. This palace successively hosted the Council of State and the Court of Auditors. During the Paris Commune in 1871, the entire neighborhood was burned down, leaving the charred walls of the Palais d'Orsay in ruins for 30 years. On the eve of the 1900 Universal Exhibition, the State ceded the land to the Orléans Railway Company. This company planned to build a more central terminal station in place of the Palais d'Orsay. The architect Victor Laloux was chosen to design the station which was inaugurated on July 14, 1900. Inside, modernism and elegance coexisted: inclined planes, freight elevators, elevators and sixteen underground tracks. It functioned as a station until the 1970s. François Mitterrand, Valéry Giscard d'Estaing and Jacques Chirac inaugurated the Musée d'Orsay on December 1, 1986. The Musée d'Orsay focuses on the period 1848-1914. It houses collections of modern art, including major works by Vuillard, Bonnard, Signac, Seurat, Gauguin and Van Gogh. The surface area of the museum is impressive with 72,735 m² of rooms and galleries. Musée du quai Branly The Quai Branly Museum - Jacques Chirac, formerly known as the Museum of Arts and Civilizations of Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas, is an ethnographic museum located 37 quai Branly in the 7th arrondissement of Paris in close to the whole of Eiffel. The site initially hosted the National Furniture Guard in 1852, then the Trades Center during the Universal Exhibition of 1937. The museum project was led by Jacques Chirac and carried out by the architect Jean Nouvel. It was inaugurated on June 20, 2006. The museum covers 40,600 m², of which 12,000 m² are dedicated to exhibitions. Its collections cover African, Asian, Oceanian and American arts. Since its opening, it has had more than 10 million visitors, placing it among the busiest in the world in its category. On June 21, 2016, it was renamed in honor of former president Jacques Chirac. The emblem of the museum is a Chupicuaro statuette.