Europe's finest modern art complex space in Beaubourg, Paris, France, where various artistic and cultural functions converge. Built by Georges Pompidou, designed by Renzo Piano, and executed by architect Richard Rogers

Dimensions: width 166m, depth 60m, height 42m. Official name: Centre National d'Art et de Culture Georges-Pompidou

Opened in 1977, receiving 6.6 million annual visitors, Paris's third most visited site after the Louvre Palace and Eiffel Tower

Central Paris area surrounded by Les Halles district. Used as parking lot without specific plans until 1960s

Georges Pompidou (then French President) decided to build cultural arts center in 1960s. Current Centre Pompidou established through international design competition

The Centre Pompidou consists of modern and contemporary art museums, libraries, and cinema facilities. Sloped front plaza hosting various performances, domestic and international attraction

Contrasting modern design with classical Les Halles district atmosphere. Serves as central Paris landmark