Institut du Monde Arabe

On the Left Bank overlooking the Seine, this cultural institute promotes knowledge of the Arab world through exhibitions, a museum, a library and performances. Designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, its celebrated south facade is covered with hundreds of metal screens patterned like mashrabiya lattices, whose apertures were conceived to open and close with the light. Inside, galleries trace the art, science and history of Arab civilisations, and a rooftop terrace offers panoramic views over Notre-Dame.