Each summer, the Défense district came alive with a highly anticipated event that drew locals and visitors alike. The Extatiques was a major contemporary art trail that transformed the business district into an open-air gallery. The event wrapped up in 2024 with a special edition held underground at Paris La Défense. But good news: the Extatiques are making a comeback in spring 2026.
The artistic journey returns from April 3rd to April 26th, 2026. The exhibition is once again set up in a basement, occupying a 1,000-square-meter space located beneath the Grande Arche de la Défense. This area, typically off-limits to visitors, is transformed into a unique and immersive underground museum.
The Extatiques exhibition showcases works by four contemporary artists, presented in a specially designed installation. Visitors are equipped with a headphones and a flashlight to fully immerse themselves in the exhibition's atmosphere and navigate the route.
This year’s Extatiques invites visitors to explore the enigmatic world of the ocean, under the theme "Beyond the Horizon." Artists blend science, art, and fiction to craft immersive underwater worlds. Each installation reveals a unique ecosystem, delving into the wonders of nature and the mysteries of the seas. The works also tackle pressing issues such as climate change and showcase the strange creatures lurking in the ocean depths...
Visitors move from installation to artwork, guided by Emily Loizeau’s voice. They are immersed in a narrative that blurs the line between fiction and scientific fact.
In spring, visitors are encouraged to take advantage of this unexpected new edition of Les Extatiques. Tickets are expected to go on sale soon via the Archie La Défense website.
Dates and Opening Time
From April 3, 2026 to April 26, 2026
Location
Grande Arche de la Défense
1 Parvis de la Défense
92800 Puteaux
Prices
Visite de 1h30: €17
Visite de 45 minutes: €45
Official website
archie.parisladefense.com















