Impossible to miss, in the heart of the 13ᵉ arrondissement, between the Gare d’Austerlitz and the Cité de la Mode et du Design, stands the astonishing headquarters of Le Monde. A futuristic building , an architectural landmark and a true symbol of the French press, it intrigues as much as it fascinates. But beyond its spectacular lines, the site hides a history, secrets and… an exceptional opening during the European Heritage Days.
From former headquarters to futuristic offices in the 13ᵉ arrondissement
Founded in 1944 by Hubert Beuve-Méry , Le Monde has had several emblematic addresses in Paris: rue des Italiens, rue Falguière, boulevard Auguste-Blanqui… before settling in 2020 in its ultra-modern setting in the 13ᵉ arrondissement. Designed by Norwegian agency Snøhetta, the building is a veritable bridge of glass and steel spanning the railroad tracks at Gare d’Austerlitz.
Its façade, composed of 20,000 translucent panels, changes with the light, creating a mysterious, moving atmosphere. More than 1,600 employees from all the group’s editorial departments (Le Monde, Télérama, Courrier International, HuffPost, La Vie and L’Obs) now work here. A totem-building that sums up the history of a newspaper that has become a global reference.
When the Festival du Monde opens the doors of secrecy
Once a year, during the European Heritage Days, Le Monde headquarters opens its doors to the public for the Festival du Monde. Over a long weekend, the forecourt is transformed into a festive village – food court, concerts, immersive shows, workshops for children and teenagers.
Inside, there’s plenty of time to go behind the scenes – guided tours of the editorial offices, meetings with journalists, discovery of Hubert Beuve-Méry’s historic office, debates and live podcasts. Visitors can even try their hand at daily headlines or fake news verification, before strolling out onto the panoramic terrace.
A true plunge into the world of the daily newspaper, the Festival du Monde has become a not-to-be-missed event in September, offering the curious a unique opportunity to cross the threshold of this mysterious building, which usually only reveals itself through its articles (don’t forget to book your tickets online!).