Behind the Scenes in Paris: Photos of Unlikely Places and Back Corners

Often in Paris, we revel in the beauty of street scenes and architecturally interesting buildings. So, too, at museums and galleries, we enjoy looking at the exhibitions both transitory and permanent. And especially when we’re passing through Parisian airports, we rush to our gates or bemoan the long lines, never taking time to notice our surroundings.

But there is so much more to see. In the most unlikely places, beauty abounds. Here are some photos of unusual perspectives in well-known Paris places.

The Musée d’Orsay, for example, has incredibly beautiful staircases, escalators and back corners. We may visit the museum for its world renowned collection of Impressionist art, for the masterpieces by Van Gogh and Courbet, to marvel at the soaring space of a former train station, but the inner workings of the museum– these functional aspects of the building– are fascinating in form.

Architect Frank Gehry’s Louis Vuitton Foundation astonishes both outside and in. Situated at the western edge of Paris in the Bois de Boulogne, this contemporary art museum draws visitors as much for the art exhibitions as for the stunning architecture. You could spend a day just wandering the building, discovering the nooks and crannies, the interesting details and perspectives.

Even the Paris airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, have corners that inspire beauty. Instead of rushing through the motions– check-in, security lines– linger and look. When we stop to take the time to notice, there is so much beauty in Paris to behold…

Lead photo credit : Musée d’Orsay. Photo: Fern Nesson