Overlooking the Grand Palais, Europe’s largest glass roof creates a dialogue between light and architecture. This emblematic Paris landmark hosts exhibitions, major events and exceptional installations, under an impressive structure of glass and steel…
The glass roof of the Grand Palais, a jewel of Parisian architectural heritage
In the heart of Paris, a majestic structure stands out for its elegance and grandeur. Designed at the end of the XIXᵉ century, this steel and glass glass roof is a true architectural gem. Indeed, its construction marked a turning point in the design of public and exhibition spaces, offering exceptional luminosity and a sense of openness unheard of at the time.
Since then, the building has hosted countless art exhibitions, prestigious salons and major cultural events, consolidating its reputation as an essential part of Parisian heritage. Every beam and every pane of glass bears witness to the architects’ artistic and technical ambitions, making this glass roof much more than just a simple roof: it’s a living testimony to French history and innovation.
Exceptional dimensions make it the largest glass roof in Europe
Beyond its fascinating history, the glass roof of the Grand Palais stands out for its impressive dimensions, making it the largest glass roof in Europe. The nave it covers covers 13,500 m², an exceptional space capable of hosting large-scale events. This was notably the case at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, during the fencing and Taekwondo events.
Its metal structure supports a glass roof that floods the interior with sublime natural light, revealing all the elegance of the architecture. Listed as a “Monument Historique” in its entirety since 2000, Le Grand Palais remains a national symbol of architectural heritage and innovation. As well as being the largest in Europe, its glass roof is undoubtedly the most beautiful in Paris.
A not-to-be-missed event under the legendary glass roof of the Grand Palais: the world’s largest indoor ice rink.
Called the Grand Palais des Glaces, the world’s largest indoor ice rink transports skating fans into a spectacular winter world. And the 2025-2026 edition promises its share of surprises. After the monumental 7 m-high polar bear sculpture by Richard Orlinski in 2018, this year the Grand Palais ice rink will host a replica of the Eiffel Tower at its center.
Budding skaters will be able to enjoy an exceptional sliding surface while admiring this architectural masterpiece, the emblem of Paris. All this under the spectacular glass roof of the Grand Palais, where skaters will marvel at the view and raise their eyes to the heavens.