The Grand Palais: A Monument to Progress

The Grand Palais

A Monument to Progress and Art in Paris

Construction Timeline

Groundbreaking: 1897

Construction period: 1897-1900

Official opening: May 1, 1900

Built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle

The Grand Palais was constructed in just three years, representing one of the fastest major construction projects of its era.

The Architects and Builders

Henri Deglane: Lead architect and designer

Albert Louvet: Co-architect, structural design

Albert Thomas: Co-architect, interior planning

Charles Girault: Consulting architect

The team combined Beaux-Arts classical principles with cutting-edge iron and glass engineering.

Purpose and Vision

Centerpiece of the 1900 Exposition Universelle

Showcase French industrial and artistic achievements

Demonstrate mastery of modern construction techniques

Create lasting cultural venue for Paris

A palace of iron and glass that would celebrate the triumph of industry and art in the new century.

A Lasting Legacy

Built between 1897-1900 by Henri Deglane and his team, the Grand Palais fulfilled its creators' vision of celebrating French innovation and artistry for the 1900 Exposition Universelle.

Today, over 120 years later, it continues to serve as one of Paris's premier cultural venues.