What is La Défense in Paris?

La Défense is a big, purpose-built business and finance area. It sits just west of the edge of Paris. You can spot it right away. The modern high-rises stand close together. The Grande Arche also draws the eye. It sits in line with the Arc de Triomphe.

The district was planned in the 1950s. The goal was to move big company offices away from the old centre of Paris. Today, many multinational firms have offices there. It is not only a workplace. La Défense also works as a large mixed area for living and shopping. You can find a wide open-air sculpture space there. There is also a huge shopping centre, considered one of the largest in Europe.