Les Halles

Affectionately known as ‘the belly of Paris,’ Les Halles has been a focal point of the city since the 11th century, originally serving as the bustling central food market. In the 1970s, the historic food stalls were dismantled to make way for the Forum des Halles, a modern shopping center and metro station. The site underwent a complete renovation in 2010, resulting in La Canopée, an undulating glass-and-steel covering that stands as one of the most striking examples of contemporary architecture in Paris. Today, visitors can explore a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces under this impressive structure.