La Défense, Paris

If you are not a big fan of modern architecture, but still in Paris, you will like this  La Défense building.

In a huge contrast to the old historical part of Paris, I had the impression of being in another world, in other time. Or better in Besson's "The 5th element"...
The most western point of my trip to Paris is a visit to the biggest business district in Europe called La Défense. It is outside of central Paris, but easily reached by the metro. It's a place that attracted me for its abstract appearance. Clean large office buildings, lots of statues and modern art, and then there is of course this relatively new huge landmark: La Grande Arche!

La Grande Arche marks the end of the "Axe historique" that I mentioned a bit earlier on in my tips. The Axe Historique (or also known as the "grand historic axis", "Voie Triomphale" or "Triumphal Way") is an amazing nine-kilometre long linear route which dominates central and western Paris. This route is consists some of Paris' most famous landmarks like the Louvre with its Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe and ends up right her at La Défense with its Grande Arche.



The day was grey, the sun had disappeared and the clouds and an occassional drizzle of rain had taken over. This was not the day and not the weather to visit La Défense. The large office buildings were like huge chameleons, taking on the grey boring colour of the clouds. The sharp contrast between the blue sky and the glittering modern architecture was missing. La Défense was missing the sparkle I had hoped for. My camera clicked, but without a smile. It could have been so good, now it was just one big disappointment. La Défense is not the easiest attraction (if you can call it that) in Paris to enjoy. It does need the sun to shine! And you do have to love your modern art and architecture to enjoy this place.