Centre Pompidou-Metz is the satellite branch of the Paris Centre Pompidou, located in the city of Metz in France's Grand Est region, three minutes' walk from the TGV railway station. Opened in 2010 in a building designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban and Jean de Gastines, the structure is immediately recognisable by its vast undulating roof of woven timber lattice in hexagonal panels, inspired by a traditional Chinese woven hat and clad in glass-reinforced fibreglass. The building houses three long gallery tubes stacked diagonally, each 90 metres long, which host rotating exhibitions drawn from the Centre Pompidou's Paris collection — one of the largest holdings of modern and contemporary art in Europe. On any given visit the galleries may feature works from the Fauvist and Cubist periods, mid-century abstraction, video installation, or contemporary photography, depending on the programme. The central space — the Grande Nef — is a cavernous hall used for large-scale installations and events. The roof terrace offers views over the city and towards the twin spires of Metz Cathedral 10 minutes away. Admission covers all current exhibitions; the programme changes several times per year, so checking the schedule at centrepompidou-metz.fr before a visit is recommended. The museum shop and cafe are on the ground floor. Metz Cathedral, Place de la République, and the old town are all within a 15-minute walk.
Good to know
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 10:00–18:00; Sat–Sun 10:00–19:00; closed Tuesday
- Best time
- Weekday afternoons are less crowded
Location
1 parvis des Droits de l'Homme, 57000 Metz
49.1186, 6.1723 View on map
Highlights
- Shigeru Ban's woven timber lattice roof — one of the most striking 21st-century architectural landmarks in France
- Rotating exhibitions drawn from the Centre Pompidou Paris collection of over 100,000 works
- Grande Nef central hall for large-scale contemporary installations
- Roof terrace with views towards Metz Cathedral spires
- Free admission on the first Sunday of every month
Tips for visiting
- Check the current exhibition programme at centrepompidou-metz.fr before visiting — galleries rotate several times per year
- The first Sunday of the month is free; arrive early as it draws larger crowds
- Metz Cathedral's 6,500 m² of stained glass is 10 minutes' walk — combine for a full cultural day
- Photography without flash is generally permitted; individual exhibitions may restrict it — follow posted signs
- The roof terrace is accessible and provides a good perspective on the building's exterior architecture
When to visit
Weekday afternoons for the fewest visitors. First Sunday of the month for free admission, though crowds are larger. Autumn and winter light makes the woven roof exterior especially dramatic.
Accessibility
The building is fully accessible by wheelchair, with lifts between all gallery levels. The entrance is at ground level with step-free access from the main plaza. Adapted toilets are available on each floor.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Plan 1.5–2 hours for the main galleries and Grande Nef. The current exhibition fills a comfortable half-morning.
Is there free admission?
Yes — admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Is photography allowed?
Photography without flash is generally permitted. Individual exhibitions may have restrictions — follow posted signs in each gallery.