subject: Uncover Paris Famed Business District At La Dfense [print this page] Situated at the western end of Pariss 10km historical axis lies what has long been considered the most expansive purpose-built financial district in all of Europe. Popularly referred to as La Dfense, the business hub was the brainchild of Charles De Gaulle who believed that designating the citys high-rises and commercial buildings to a specific corner of the metropolis would preserve the historic landscape of downtown Paris and keep its ambience intact. Spread out over 400 acres and separated in to a dozen sectors La Dfense consists of 3,500,000 square metres of office space, a 210,000 square metre shopping area, 110,000 square metres of lush green spaces and nearly 60 modern art sculptures and landmarks.
Named after the sculpture known as Dfense de Paris' erected within the quarter to commemorate the Franco-Prussian war of 1870, the areas most famous landmark is of course the 360 foot high Grande Arche. Built to serve as a 20th century incarnation of Pariss Arc De Triomphe the hollow cube shaped structure is an architectural marvel designed by famed architect Otto von Spreckelsen. With its own observation deck at the topmost level, the Grande Arche offers guests stunning views of the heart of the city. A small art gallery is also located on the upper floor while the sides of the Arche house corporate offices.
La Dfense is also home to the sprawling Quatre Temps Shopping Mall which is the largest mall of its kind in continental Europe. With a host of branded stores and quaint boutiques the mega shopping complex also contains several film theatres and nearly 40 restaurants, cafes and food outlets. Rue De Bezons is another must-visit area inside La Dfense as it is renowned for its budget eateries, Turkish restaurants and an excellent bakery while express cafes and a number of food vendors are also located within the La Coupole underground gallery.
Known as a forest of towers, the area is also a highlight for those who love monumental and distinctly modern structures of glass and steel with the tallest high rise measuring a whopping 614 feet in height. Named the Total, the 48 floor building is also the 2nd highest occupied structure in all of Paris after Tour Montparnasse. Other super structures include the Socit Gnrale tower, Aventis, Arcelor, Cegetel, and Areva towers.
Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris is one of the exceptional luxury hotels Paris counts among its best accommodation providers. Ideally situated within minutes of the Champs-Elyses in the heart of an exclusive neighbourhood this is one luxury hotel Paris simply cannot do without.
