Experience the significance of one ofthe world’s most important meeting places at the United Nations Headquarters.This majestic building can be explored in an hour or two, though you will wantto spend some time spotting some spectacular monuments in the elegant ArianaPark.
This historic building was built shortlyafter World War II to host a global coalition of nations that would ensure suchan atrocity never occurred again. Tour its grounds to learn about thesemeetings between states throughout the ages, from its birth as the League ofNations to its modern form as the United Nations.
Witness the grand chambers of thebuilding’s assembly hall, the Palais des Nations. This space has been the siteof many heated discussions and agreements that have had globally significant ramifications.Be sure to ask your guide about historic events in these chambers and about thecurrent issues being investigated by the ambassadors.
Artworks throughout the headquarterhalls illustrate the United Nation’s spirit: the drive for global equality anddiversity. Inspired works include paintings by Miqel Barceló in the HumanRights and Alliance of Civilizations Room or the Council Chamber murals, putinto colour by José Maria Sert.
When you need a break, get some freshair in the surrounding Ariana Park. Explore this 46-hectare (1140-acre) landscapeand learn about its meaningful monuments. The Celestial Sphere is of particularsignificance, built in 1939 to memorialise the birth of the League of Nations. Allof these are framed by the park’s peaceful landscape, decorated with 800species of trees and a population of peacocks. The Ariana Museum is also wortha visit, featuring a neoclassical façade and an impressive collection ofceramics.
The United Nations European Headquartersis centrally located. Get there by bus, tram or train. The buildings are openweekdays year-round and on Saturdays in summer. Tours are available in manylanguages for a small fee. Valid personal identification is required for entry.
