The Palais des Nations will open its doors to the public on Saturday 7 October, prior to a five-year-long renovation of the complex. Originally built in the 1930s, this symbol of Geneva's diplomatic power has never been fully renovated. The open day will feature unique interactive and educational activities, presented by key members of international Geneva.
Interaction and dialogue with UN staff will be the common theme of the open day. A series of booths scattered around the Palais will highlight the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and 2030 Agenda. Fun-filled activity trails will allow visitors to gain a better understanding of the work carried out by Geneva-based UN agencies and international organizations, through tangible examples of their achievements. The most iconic rooms in the Palais will be open to the public, showcasing the building's rich architectural and artistic heritage.
The Palais in a few key figures:
- The complex extends over 600 metres and includes 34 conference rooms and 2,800 offices. It is the United Nations' second-largest centre after New York.
- The Palais des Nations hosts over 10,000 meetings per year, of which 16% are held outside Geneva. On average, 47 meetings take place every working day.
- 1,099 journalists were accredited with UNOG in 2016.
- 111,063 visitors joined a guided tour of the Palais.
During the open day, journalist Joëlle Kuntz will present her most recent book, "International Geneva: 100 Years of Architecture", published this October by Editions Slatkine. The book recounts the construction of the buildings that make up the city's international quarter today. The presentation will take place at 11 a.m. in the Delegates Lounge, followed by a book signing.
In 2015, for its 70th anniversary, the Palais des Nations organized an open day that attracted 20,000 visitors, including many families.
Practical information:
Saturday, 7 October, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.). Free admission. For information and reservation, please follow the link (select an arrival time; you can then stay for the rest of the day).