Soaring above the Parisian skyline, the Montparnasse Tower stands as a testament to the city’s modern architectural spirit. Its sleek, steel-and-glass silhouette is a stark contrast to the charming, Haussmannian buildings that line the streets below, yet it has become an integral part of the Parisian landscape.
As you ascend to the tower’s rooftop observation deck, you will be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the City of Lights, stretching from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
Montparnasse Tower History
The story of the Montparnasse Tower begins in the 1930s when the French railway company, SNCF, sought to modernize the Gare Montparnasse train station. The station was considered outdated and unable to meet the growing demands of passenger traffic. In 1959, a plan was proposed to demolish the station and construct a new office building in its place. This ambitious project sparked much debate among Parisians, as some feared it would disrupt the city’s architectural harmony.
Despite the initial opposition, the construction of the Montparnasse Tower commenced in 1969. The project faced significant challenges, including the need to build the tower over existing metro lines. To overcome this obstacle, engineers designed a reinforced concrete foundation that extended 70 meters underground, ensuring the tower’s stability and safety.
In 1973, the Montparnasse Tower was officially inaugurated, becoming the tallest structure in France at the time. With its 56 floors and a height of 210 meters, the tower was a symbol of Paris’s modernity and its embrace of urban development.
Montparnasse Tower Facts
Today, the Montparnasse Tower serves as a vibrant hub of business activity, accommodating offices, restaurants, and a panoramic restaurant on the 56th floor. The tower’s observation deck, accessible to the public, provides unparalleled 360-degree views of Paris, offering a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks and neighborhoods.
- Height: 210 meters (690 feet)
- Storeys: 56
- Observation Deck: 56th floor
- Panoramic Restaurant: Ciel de Paris (56th floor)
- Exhibition: 59th floor
- Construction Period: 1969-1973
- Architect: Édouard Louis Dutart
- Status: Tallest building in France from 1973 to 2011
- Notable Views: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Sacré-Coeur basilica, Bois de Boulogne
Soar to new heights and discover the captivating allure of the Montparnasse Tower, Paris’s only skyscraper. Ascend to the rooftop observation deck for panoramic vistas of the Citysharemore_vert
Montparnasse Tower Best Things to Do and See
1. Ascend to the Rooftop Observation Deck:
For a truly unforgettable experience, make your way to the panoramic rooftop observation deck on the 56th floor. From this vantage point, you will be mesmerized by sweeping views of Paris, encompassing the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Sacré-Coeur basilica, and the verdant Bois de Boulogne.
2. Indulge in Culinary Delights at Ciel de Paris:
The 56th floor also houses Ciel de Paris, a sophisticated restaurant offering a refined dining experience amidst breathtaking views of the city. Savor delectable French cuisine while enjoying the panoramic vistas, creating an unforgettable culinary memory.
3. Explore the 59th Floor Exhibition:
Delve into the fascinating history and construction of the Montparnasse Tower through the interactive exhibition on the 59th floor. Discover the architectural challenges that were overcome, the innovative techniques employed, and the impact the tower has had on the Parisian skyline.
4. Admire Panoramic Views from the Indoor Terrace:
Even if you are not keen on heights, you can still enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the indoor terrace on the 56th floor. Relax in the comfortable seating area and soak in the breathtaking vistas of the cityscape.
5. Immerse in Virtual Reality Experiences:
Take your exploration of Paris to the next level with the virtual reality experiences available on the 56th floor. Experience exhilarating simulations of flying over the city or gliding down the Seine River, creating unforgettable virtual adventures.
Parisian Landmarks from the Montparnasse Tower
As you stand atop the Montparnasse Tower’s observation deck, the Parisian skyline unfolds before you, a mesmerizing tapestry of iconic landmarks and hidden gems. From the Eiffel Tower’s majestic silhouette to the hidden rooftops of the Marais district, the city reveals its secrets from this unique vantage point. Let’s embark on a journey of discovery, identifying the famous landmarks that grace the Parisian panorama from the Montparnasse Tower.
Eiffel Tower: The undisputed symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands tall and proud, its delicate iron latticework piercing the Parisian sky. From the Montparnasse Tower’s observation deck, you will marvel at its intricate details and the sheer scale of this engineering marvel.
Louvre Museum: Home to some of the world’s most renowned masterpieces, the Louvre Museum is a treasure trove of art and history. From the Montparnasse Tower, you can spot the Louvre’s iconic glass pyramid, a modern addition to this historic institution.
Sacré-Coeur Basilica: Perched atop Montmartre, the Sacré-Coeur basilica is a beacon of Parisian spirituality. Its gleaming white domes and towering spires can be seen from the Montparnasse Tower, adding a touch of grandeur to the cityscape.
Arc de Triomphe: Standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe commemorates the victories of the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. From the Montparnasse Tower, you can appreciate the arch’s intricate carvings and the bustling boulevard that stretches before it.
Bois de Boulogne: Escaping the urban grid, the Bois de Boulogne provides a tranquil oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. From the Montparnasse Tower, you can spot the verdant expanse of this former hunting ground, a haven for nature lovers and recreational enthusiasts.
Montparnasse Cemetery: The final resting place of many literary giants, the Montparnasse Cemetery is a poignant reminder of Paris’s artistic heritage. From the Montparnasse Tower, you can spot the cemetery’s serene grounds, where renowned figures like Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Charles Baudelaire lie in eternal peace.
When was the Montparnasse Tower built?
The Montparnasse Tower was built between 1969 and 1973.
How tall is the Montparnasse Tower?
The Montparnasse Tower is 210 meters (690 feet) tall.
How many floors does the Montparnasse Tower have?
The Montparnasse Tower has 56 floors.
Is the Montparnasse Tower taller than the Eiffel Tower
No, the Eiffel Tower is taller than the Montparnasse Tower. The Eiffel Tower is 324 meters (1,063 feet) tall.
What is there to do at the Montparnasse Tower?
There are many things to do at the Montparnasse Tower, including:
Visiting the observation deck for panoramic views of Paris
Dining at the Ciel de Paris restaurant
Exploring the exhibition on the 59th floor
Immersing yourself in virtual reality experiences
Shopping in the Montparnasse Tower shopping mall
How much does it cost to visit the Montparnasse Tower?
Ticket prices for the Montparnasse Tower vary depending on the age of the visitor and whether or not you want to visit the observation deck, the exhibition, or the Ciel de Paris restaurant. You can find more information on the tower’s website.
How do I get to the Montparnasse Tower?
The Montparnasse Tower is located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris. You can get to the tower by metro (line 4, 6, 12, or 13) or by bus (lines 28, 39, 82, or 92).
Conclusion
As you descend from the Montparnasse Tower’s observation deck, carry with you the memories of the breathtaking views and the fascinating stories of the Parisian landmarks you have discovered. The Montparnasse Tower stands as a testament to Paris’s ability to embrace modernity while preserving its rich heritage, offering a glimpse into the city’s past, present, and future.
