Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, known locally as Parc des expositions de la porte de Versailles, is a sprawling exhibition center located at the crossroads of the 15th arrondissement of Paris and the communes of Issy-les-Moulineaux and Vanves. As the second largest exhibition park in France, trailing only behind Paris-Nord Villepinte, it stands as a beacon of commerce, innovation, and cultural exchange, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.
The origins of Paris Expo Porte de Versailles trace back to 1923 when it was established to host the Foire de Paris, which had outgrown its previous home on the Champ de Mars. The initial vision for the site, designed by architects Paul Viard and Marcel Dastugue, included a series of halls that would later be partially demolished to make way for the construction of the Paris ring road, the Boulevard Périphérique.
The site has seen its fair share of historical moments. In 1936, it served as the starting point for the grand cortège du Bœuf Gras, a major event of the Carnaval de Paris. A year later, for the Exposition Universelle, architects Louis-Hippolyte Boileau and Léon Azéma added a monumental entrance featuring four illuminated turrets, which remain a defining feature of the landscape today.
The exhibition center endured a hiatus during World War II when it was occupied by military forces. However, the post-war years brought a resurgence of activity with the introduction of new trade fairs, including the Salon de l'Automobile in 1962 and the Salon Nautique in the 1980s. The site also became a venue for significant political events, such as the grand meeting of the Gaullist party in 1968, where André Malraux delivered a stirring speech.
Since 2013, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles has been undergoing a massive ten-year modernization project, transforming it into a state-of-the-art venue. The project, managed by the Viparis group, aims to enhance the site’s functionality, integrate it more seamlessly into the urban fabric, and improve its environmental footprint. Renowned architects like Jean Nouvel and Dominique Perrault have been enlisted to bring this vision to life.
The first phase of the modernization, completed in 2017, saw the creation of a central alley and a welcoming plaza featuring a striking 40-meter LED ring. The highlight of this phase was the transformation of Pavilion 7 into the Paris Convention Centre, now the largest of its kind in Europe, capable of accommodating up to 35,000 attendees.
The second phase, which spanned from 2018 to 2020, involved the reconstruction of Pavilion 6, the demolition of Pavilion 8 and the C parking lot, and the construction of two new hotels—a Mama Shelter and a Novotel. This phase also introduced 1.5 hectares of urban agriculture on the rooftops of Pavilion 6, contributing to the overall greening of the park.
The final phase, set to be completed by 2024, focuses on preparing the site for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This includes the transformation of Pavilions 2 and 3, the creation of a new restaurant, and the development of community gardens. The site will host several Olympic events, including handball, table tennis, volleyball, and weightlifting, making it a central hub of activity during the games.
Paris Expo Porte de Versailles is more than just an exhibition center; it is a vibrant hub of innovation and culture. The site hosts over 200 events annually, attracting more than six million visitors. It features seven interconnected pavilions, each offering a unique space for trade shows, conventions, and cultural events. The pavilions are linked by covered walkways, ensuring easy navigation for visitors.
Among the most notable events held here are the Paris Motor Show, the Paris Book Fair, and the Paris International Agricultural Show. These events draw industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from around the world, fostering an environment of learning, networking, and discovery.
Accessibility is a key feature of Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. The site is well-connected by public transportation, with the Porte de Versailles metro station on Line 12 offering direct links to Montparnasse and Saint-Lazare train stations. Tram lines T2 and T3a also serve the area, providing convenient access for visitors traveling from different parts of the city.
The ongoing transformation of Paris Expo Porte de Versailles is a testament to its enduring relevance and adaptability. As it evolves to meet the needs of the future, it remains a symbol of Paris’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange. Whether you are a business professional attending a trade show, a tourist exploring the latest exhibitions, or a local enjoying the urban green spaces, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles offers a dynamic and enriching experience.
In conclusion, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles stands as a beacon of modernity and tradition, a place where history and innovation converge. Its halls echo with the stories of the past while embracing the possibilities of the future, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant city of Paris.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
