Institut du Monde Arabe

The Arab World Institute was founded by France and 18 countries in the Middle East and North Africa in 1980 with the aim of promoting cross-cultural dialogue. It hosts temporary exhibitions and a fascinating museum of Arab culture and history (4th to 7th floors). The stunning building, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, was inspired by lattice-wood window screens (mashrabiya) traditional to Arab architecture. Thousands of modern-day photoelectric-sensitive apertures cover its sparkling glass façade.