The Grand Palais Highlight of the Exposition Universelle of 1900, The Grand Palais was built in three years and is in a strategic location of the capital: the “Republican Axis”, a final great urban achievement in Paris, allowing one quick access from the Invalides to the Champs-Elysées via the Alexander III Bridge. Throughout the 20th century, The Grand Palais was a prominent meeting place for art and theatre events showcasing innovation and the modern era, like the famous Automobile or Aviation Fairs. A prestigious site in the heart of Paris, the entire edifice was classified as a historical monument in November 2000. Since 2007, The Grand Palais has been a public institution. Its programmes exemplify excellence and aesthetics, attracting 1.5 million visitors each year, attracted by the magnificent glass ceiling encased in stone and steel.