Between 1900 and 1936, the Orsay Museum was a popular Parisian railway station called Gare d’Orsay. Trains would depart towards the southwest of Paris and back. After running for many successful years, at the start of World War II, the station was used as a mailing center for prisoners. It also ceased to function as a railway station because of the advancement of technology, which resulted in bigger and faster trains, unable to operate at the station.
In 1977, the decision was made to convert the building into a museum. Although the planners decided to demolish the building to open up a museum, the building was declared a historical monument. The layout of the Orsay Museum today very much resembles the old train station. The giant clock that existed while it was a station, has been preserved and remains as part of the history of the building.
Learn about Orsay Museum's historyThe Orsay Museum clock is located on the fifth floor of the building, facing the north side of the Seine River.
Yes. Visitors can take the lift up to the fifth floor to admire the clock from up close. You will need an entrance ticket to visit the museum.
The Orsay Museum clock dates back to the 1900s, when the building functioned as a train station.
The Orsay Museum clock is famous because it was once part of a train station that existed before the museum opened. It is also known for giving visitors breathtaking views of Paris.
Yes. The Orsay Museum clock is a beautiful piece of Parisian history, well worth taking a look at. You can also admire the River Seine and nearby landmarks from the clock.
As long as you’re using a handheld camera or a mobile phone, you can take pictures of the Orsay Museum clock. Don’t forget to also take pictures of the beautiful view of Paris from the clock.