Travel Back in Time as you Marvel at the Orsay Museum Clock in Paris
The Orsay Museum is famous for its massive collection of impressionist paintings. Aside from the impeccable artworks, the architecture of the building stands out among other art galleries. Before the Orsay Museum existed, this building was a railway station. One of the remnants of the old station is a beautiful giant clock that remains in the museum.
A Brief History of the Orsay Museum Clock
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.
Why Visit the Orsay Museum Clock?
- One of the main reasons people stop by the Orsay Museum clock is for the stunning views of the Seine River and its surroundings. Marvel at the gorgeous river and other famous landmarks like the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, and Sacre Coeur.
- The clock is an important symbol of not just the building’s history but Parisian history in general.
- Travel back in time to when the museum was a bustling railway station.
- Admire the elegant design of the clock which represents the advanced architecture of the 19th century.
- It is the perfect end to a long stroll around the museum after viewing the entire collection of works.
- It is a great spot to take scenic panoramic pictures of the skyline of Paris.
Where is the Orsay Museum Clock?
The Orsay Museum clock is part of the great hall and is located on the fifth floor of the building. As you enter the museum, take the lift up to the clock floor. You’ll see sign boards indicating where you need to go.
Aside from this giant clock, you’ll also notice a smaller clock inside the museum, adorned with intricate designs. You will find this clock on the ground floor of the museum.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Orsay Museum Clock
A. The Orsay Museum clock is located on the fifth floor of the building, facing the north side of the Seine River.
A. 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.
A. The Orsay Museum clock dates back to the 1900s, when the building functioned as a train station.
A. 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.
A. 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.
A. 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.
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