Palace of Nations

Geneva, Switzerland

The Palace of Nations is the home of the United Nations Office at Geneva. It was built between 1929 and 1938 to serve as the headquarters of the League of Nations. The palace was at the time of completion the second-largest building complex in Europe after Versailles.

The Palace is located in Ariana Park, which was bequeathed to the City of Geneva in 1890 by Gustave de Revilliod de la Rive, on several conditions: i.a. that the park always remain accessible to the public and that he be buried in the park. The park also contains a 1668 chalet.

Beneath the Palace of Nations's foundation stone is a time capsule containing a document listing the names of the League of Nations member states, a copy of the Covenant of the League, and specimen coins of all the countries represented at the league's Tenth Assembly. A medal showing the Palace of Nations with the Jura Mountains in the background was struck in silvered bronze.

The building overlooks Lake Geneva and has a clear view of the French Alps.

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Details

Founded: 1929-1938
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Switzerland

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Randall K (2 months ago)
When you need to go to the UN for a meeting, you need to go to the UN. But it is a suboptimal venue for events and conferences. The gardens are beautiful as are some of the room ceilings and artworks. However, depending on the day it will take ages to get through security, so plan for good weather. Getting food inside is a challenge and while the selection is good it is expensive and queues can be very long. Generally the shop facility is on constant need of renovations. But if you meet the people you needed to meet, it will have been worth it. Just bring snacks and plan your timing accordingly!
Samar A. (4 months ago)
The Palais des Nations is a monumental testament to diplomacy and cooperation, embodying the spirit of unity and progress on a global scale. It was an absolute honor and pleasure to participate in the Human Rights Council session within its historic halls. The experience was truly enlightening, offering a profound insight into the mechanisms that drive positive change and uphold fundamental rights worldwide. The Palais des Nations stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration, where voices from all corners of the world converge in the pursuit of a better future for humanity. The Palais des Nations is a masterpiece of architecture, blending grandeur with functionality to create a space that inspires awe and reverence. The warm and welcoming atmosphere within the United Nations Palace further enhances the experience, making visitors feel valued and respected from the moment they step inside. The combination of the building's majestic design and the hospitable environment truly sets the stage for impactful discussions and meaningful collaborations during sessions at the Human Rights Council. It's a place where history, diplomacy, and hospitality converge to foster dialogue and progress on a global scale.
Sudershan Singh Gusain (12 months ago)
Imposing monument of equality and diversity. Huge place with large halls and roome for meetings of international importance. All seats have Mike's and speakers which have translated version in 6 or more languages depending on the room and meeting.
Chander Kolhi (2 years ago)
The most beautiful and loving place. A dream has come true today after being in the United Nations.
Charlotte Clarke (2 years ago)
The UN was the top of my sons list when we booked our trip to Geneva, so we just had to get tickets to get inside! You have to book a tour to get inside the gates, we booked online roughly 3 weeks before, but it tells you to do it as soon as you can as it books up fast! You get a guided 1hour tour which is OK, but it's honestly worth booking just to get inside the gates, so many brilliant photo opportunities! The buildings and gardens are beautiful! My son was so happy getting his picture with the flags! Our tour guide was lovely, I can't remember his name! He really did try to squeeze as much in as possible in the short time! It's worth it as the tickets are quite cheap!
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