What Is the Tall Black Building in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’ve ever been to Paris, you may have noticed a tall black building looming over the city. This iconic structure is known as the Tour Montparnasse – a 59-story skyscraper that has become a recognizable part of the Parisian skyline.

What is the Tour Montparnasse?

The Tour Montparnasse is a commercial office building located in the Montparnasse area of Paris. Completed in 1973, it stands at 210 meters tall and was, at the time of its construction, the tallest skyscraper in France.

Why is it so controversial?

The Tour Montparnasse has been a controversial structure since its inception. Many Parisians consider it an eyesore that clashes with the city’s historic architecture and ruins the beauty of its skyline. In fact, after its completion, there was such an outcry from locals that new height restrictions were put in place to prevent any similar structures from being built in the future.

What can you do at the Tour Montparnasse?

Despite its controversial status, the Tour Montparnasse remains a popular destination for tourists visiting Paris. The top floor of the building is home to an observation deck that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. From here, visitors can see famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

The Future of Tour Montparnasse

Despite its detractors, there are no plans to demolish or significantly alter the Tour Montparnasse anytime soon. However, there are plans underway to renovate and modernize some aspects of the structure in order to make it more energy-efficient and sustainable for future generations.

  • Improving energy efficiency: The building’s aging HVAC system will be replaced with a more efficient system that will reduce energy consumption and cut down on greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Renovating the facade: The building’s exterior will be updated with new materials that will improve its appearance and make it more resistant to weathering and pollution.
  • Enhancing the visitor experience: Plans are in place to upgrade the building’s observation deck with new technology and amenities that will make it a more enjoyable experience for visitors.

In conclusion, whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the Tour Montparnasse is an iconic part of the Parisian skyline. And while it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, there’s no denying that it offers some of the best views of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.