Institut du Monde Arabe

Institut du Monde Arabe Review

This eye-catching metal-and-glass tower by Architect Jean Nouvel cleverly uses metal diaphragms in the shape of square Arabic-style screens to work like a camera lens, opening and closing to control the flow of sunlight. The layout of this vast cultural center is intended to reinterpret the traditional enclosed Arab courtyard. Inside, there are various spaces, including a museum dedicated to Arab and Islamic civilizations set to reopen in late 2011 after a sweeping renovation. With the addition of elements from the Musée du Louvre's holdings, the impressive collection will include Islamic art, artifacts, ceramics, and textiles from across some 20 countries. There is also a performance space, a sound-and-image center, a library, and a bookstore. Temporary exhibitions usually have information and an audioguide in English. Glass elevators whisk you to the ninth floor, where you can sip mint tea in the rooftop café, Le Ziryab, while feasting on one of the best views in Paris.