Arab World Institute

The Arab World Institute is a museum, library, and cultural center on the banks of the Seine designed showcase the history, legacy, and culture of the Arab world as a whole and the millions of citizens of Arab descent that now reside in France. Located in the 5th Arrondissement, the first thing that stands out about the AWI is the building itself. Designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, the building’s southern face is a sheer wall of photo-sensitive geometric apertures which regulate the light let into the building while mimicking the evocative window screens found throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

At the Arab World Institute, you can find everything related to Arab history and civilization. The building is a mixture of traditional and more contemporary styles that hosts exhibitions, lectures by specialists, Arabic classes, and a delicious pastry restaurant! For me, it's one of the most interesting places in Paris.