Le Palais des Nations in Geneva is the second largest branch of the United Nations, after New York. This center came into existence in 1966 after the establishment of the United Nations, which was formerly known as the League of Nations. The grand Le Palais des Nations was originally constructed to set up a center of the League of Nations during the 20th century. However, it was later transformed into the Geneva office of the United Nations.
The Configuration of the Palais
The building, which covers an area of 45 hectares in the Ariana Park, was designed by five architects. They were selected among 77 others from various countries around the world. Architects like Carlo Broggi from Italy and Joseph Vago from Hungary were some of the famous names who were involved in conceiving the structure. The surface area is modeled after the Palace of Versailles and the Assembly Hall resembles the Paris Opera in terms of space. The Le Palais des Nations has a capacity of accommodating 2000 people. Meetings and discussions on various topics are held frequently at the hall. Every year the sessions are held for which at least 25,000 delegates arrive at the hall. The hall is decorated with various works of art.
With the addition of new blocks the area of the Palais has increased. The World Health Organization office was shifted to this additional part of the palace. Presently, the palace houses conference rooms, which are 34 in number, along with 28,000 official rooms.
The Park on which the office is situated originally belonged to the Revilliod de Rive family who donated the land to the government of Geneva. Before donating the land the owner placed a condition that peacocks would roam around freely inside the park. Therefore, it is quite normal for any visitor to find peacocks dancing around in full vigor on the grounds. There is a chalet inside the park. The chalet was bought from the Gruyer district in 1896 for the purpose of the national fair.
Below the cornerstone of the Palais there is a document which enlists the names of the member nations of the UN. Along with that it contains a replica of the concordat of the League of Nations and some coins of the various countries, which were part of the League.
Office Hours
The sessions are held twice a year. Firstly, between the period of April and October from 10 am to 12 pm and from 2 to 4 pm. Secondly, during the time span between July and March from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening. The third session is held between the period of November and March from 1000 hours to 1200 hours and from 2 pm to 4 pm in the evening.
