City of Sciences
and Industry
The Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie is a science museum located in Paris, and is considered one of the largest science centers in Europe.
It is an incredible place for all science and technology enthusiasts, as well as anyone who wants to experience the latest scientific and technological advances in an interactive environment.
His history...
Here is a hybrid place that we like! The City of Science and Industry is a truly original meeting space for scientists, researchers, teachers and students from around the world. It presents permanent exhibitions on a wide variety ofscientific subjects, ranging from space and astronomy to life sciences, including information and communication technologies.
In addition to permanent exhibitions, the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie also organizes temporary exhibitions on specific scientific topics, as well as scientific events and conferences throughout the year. It also has a planetarium, a media library, a research laboratory and an IMAX cinema. We advise you to take the time to explore every corner, there are real gems hidden there!
Its history is closely linked to thecultural policy of France from the end of the 20th century.
The origins of the City of Science and Industry date back to the Year of Science in 1985, a French government initiative to celebrate the nation's scientific and technological advances. The project aimed to create an innovative and interactive science museum to promote scientific education and popular science culture in France. And we see that it was a success!
The City of Sciences and Industry was inaugurated on March 13, 1986 by President François Mitterrand, during a grandiose ceremony attended by numerous political and scientific dignitaries. The museum was designed by architect Adrien Fainsilber, who created a modern, futuristic building to house the science exhibits.
A second youth! In 2019, the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie began a major renovation to modernize its facilities and offer a more immersive and interactive experience to visitors. This renovation includes the addition of new permanent and temporary exhibits, as well as updating interactive technologies to provide a more engaging and interactive science experience.
The fabric...
It's ameeting and creation space digital technology present within the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. It was set up with the aim of offering visitors a place where they could learn about new technologies, computer programming, and participate in digital creation workshops. This space is open to all, and offers activities for children and adults.
La Fabrique revolves around several themes: robotics, virtual reality, the creation of video games, 3D printing, music, video, animation and many others. Each theme offers workshops, training and activities adapted to different skill levels and ages. We love these intergenerational places where knowledge, learning and games combine!
For example, the robotics workshop allows visitors to discover the basics of computer programming, by creating programs that allow them to control robots. Visitors can thus discover the concepts of algorithms, logic and debugging.
The virtual reality space invites visitors to discover immersive worlds and interact with them. Workshops are offered to learn how to create virtual environments using 3D modeling software.
La Fabrique also offers a space dedicated to the creation of video games. Visitors can thus discover the different stages of creating a video game, from design to programming. Workshops are offered to create games using specialized software.
Likewise, the 3D printing space allows visitors to discover this revolutionary technology. Workshops are offered to learn how to model 3D objects, use slicing software, and handle 3D printers.
The architecture of the city of science and industry
The architecture of the City of Science and Industry is a striking example of the expression of modernism from the 1980s. Designed by architect Adrien Fainsilber, the building is characterized by its futuristic aesthetic and functionality. The structure is dominated by a large geodesic dome of glass and steel, which houses the main permanent exhibition hall, as well as a large conference room and a projection room.
The glass dome provides an abundant source of natural light and creates a feeling of transparency and openness. The large bay windows give a panoramic view of the Parc de la Villette and offer a feeling of immersion in the surrounding natural environment. The precast concrete facades are smooth and clean, reflecting the ideals of modernity and advanced technology.
The interior of the City of Science and Industry is just as spectacular as its exterior. The exhibition rooms are organized to guide visitors on an educational and interactive journey, encouraging exploration and discovery. Modern materials such as metal and glass are used extensively to create a bright and spacious space that inspires innovation and imagination.
Zoom on...
The planetarium at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie is cutting-edge scientific equipment that allows visitors to explore the universe in an immersive way. It is made up of a giant dome 15 meters in diameter, which houses a sophisticated projection system to faithfully recreate the starry sky and deep space. This dome is equipped with several high-resolution projectors and high-fidelity audio systems, which provide an unforgettable visual and sound experience.
The shows offered at the planetarium are created by professionals in astronomy and the sciences of the universe, who design programs adapted to different audiences and different themes. Commentaries are usually given live by an astronomer or specialist, who guides viewers through the different celestial phenomena and invites them to discover the secrets of the universe.
The planetarium of the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie also offers projections on various subjects, such as the history of astronomy, space missions, constellations, stars and planets. These projections are accompanied by explanatory comments which allow visitors to understand the scientific phenomena involved.
A visit itinerary among others
The City of Science and Industry is designed to provide an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The tour route is organized to guide visitors through the different exhibitions, thus providing a comprehensive understanding of science and technology.
Visitors have the opportunity to participate in interactive workshops, scientific demonstrations and lectures that allow them to discover the latest technological and scientific advances. In addition, the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie regularly offers temporary exhibitions on various subjects linked to science and technology.
Here is an overview of the main thematic areas:
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Explora: This permanent exhibition is the heart of the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. It offers an interactive exploration of science, technology and industry through scientific demonstrations, hands-on workshops and interactive exhibits. Visitors can discover the latest scientific and technological advances, as well asecological, environmental and social issues linked to these advances.
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La Cité des Enfants: This space is designed for children aged 2 to 12. It offersfun and educational activities for children, as well as hands-on workshops and interactive exhibitions. Children can learn about science, technology and the environment in a fun and educational way.
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The Planetarium: This place offers total immersion in astronomy, with 360-degree projections for an immersive and captivating experience. Visitors can discover the stars, planets and galaxies, as well as the latest advances in space exploration.
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La Géode: This unique cinema hall is a giant steel and glass sphere 36 meters in diameter. It offers an immersive cinematic experience, with projection on a giant screen in IMAX format. Visitors can discover documentary films on nature, science, art and culture.
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La Villette: The Parc de la Villette is a vast green space of 55 hectares located near the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. It offers a multitude of cultural and recreational activities, as well as seasonal events such as festivals, concerts and outdoor exhibitions.