In Paris, it's easy to look up from every street corner and admire sumptuous facades, whether unusual or representative of an artistic movement. But some of them also have technical features you wouldn't expect at first glance, such as the façade of theInstitut du Monde Arabe, located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Clad entirely in glass and steel, the monument adapts and evolves throughout the day, depending on the position of the sun in the sky!
This astonishing ability can be seen on the south facade, which is based on Arab geometry and traditional architecture. In hot climates, these moucharabiehs, of which there are 240 in the museum, are openwork partitions providing natural ventilation. Here, they are equipped with diaphragms that open and close hourly, depending on the amount of light outside, with almost 18 movements per day!
A lively facade, built on the banks of the Seine, which houses a section of Arab culture and civilization, accessible to the public since 1987. Inaugurated by President François Mitterrand, the Institut du Monde Arabe was designed to strengthen diplomatic relations between France and Arab countries.
Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA): program, exhibitions, events, everything you need to know about this cultural center
The Institut du Monde Arabe is an astonishing place where Arab culture reveals itself to us through astonishing exhibitions and an eclectic program of events for all ages and all audiences! [Read more]
Byblos, a millennia-old Lebanese city: the historical exhibition opens at the Arab World Institute
The Arab World Institute takes us on a journey to discover the world's first international maritime port, dating back nearly 9,000 years. The exhibition, "Byblos, a Millennium-Old City of Lebanon," is open from March 24 to August 23, 2026. [Read more]
Captives: Mediterranean Slavery Uncovered at the Arab World Institute
The Arab World Institute in Paris is hosting an exhibition dedicated to the history of slavery between Christians and Muslims across the Mediterranean from the 17th century to 1830. Titled "Captives: Arts and Slavery in the Modern Mediterranean", the exhibit runs from March 31, 2026, to July 19, 2026. Through artworks, rare artifacts, and unpublished documents, it offers a historical perspective on those enslaved and forced into labor in the ports of Europe and North Africa. [Read more]
Location
Arab World Institute
1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard
75005 Paris 5
Access
Metro Jussieu line 7, line 10
