Place des Nations

The Place des Nations is the heart of international Geneva. It is the site of the Broken Chair, created by the Geneva-based artist Daniel Berset and a symbol of the fight against anti-personnel mines.

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This square is often a place where demonstrators gather to attract the attention of public opinion and international organisations alike.

Opposite this esplanade, you can admire the grand entrance to the Palais des Nations, whose avenue is lined with the flags of its 192 member states.

Broken chair

Since 1997, the square has been home to "Broken Chair", a famous monumental wooden chair on three legs. Created by Geneva artist Daniel Berset, it symbolises Geneva's commitment to the fight against landmines.

Design of the square

Granites symbolising the diversity of nations

The floor of the Place des Nations is made up of alternating concrete and different granites from the producer countries that are members of the United Nations Organisation (UNO), symbolising the diversity of nations.

Jets of water

The 84 jets of water that make up the fountain, specially designed for the Place des Nations, come to life in a playful way, delighting local residents during the hot summer months. The water is collected for reuse, but can also be turned off to make way for gatherings.

What to see around the Place des Nations

Broken Chair

Symbole de l'engagement de Genève dans la lutte contre les mines anti-personnel, Broken Chair - célèbre chaise en bois reposant sur trois pieds - est installée en 1997 sur la Place des Nations.

Palais des Nations

A symbol of international Geneva, the Palais de Nations was built between 1929 and 1936 in the Parc de l'Ariana. Since 1966, the Palais has housed the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG). It is the most important centre of the organisation after the headquarters in New York.

Musée international de la Croix-Rouge et du Croissant-Rouge

Le MICR présente les enjeux humanitaire de l'organisation internationale.

Parc de l'Ariana

Adjacent to UN complex, Parc de l’Ariana is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet stroll under beautiful trees surrounded by meadows and lawns. Flowerbeds in full bloom and elegantly trimmed box trees decorate the plateau surrounding the flamboyant Palais de l’Ariana and its baroque fountain.

And what’s more…

Standing opposite the Place des Nations, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees provides full documentation on the actions of the organisation along with a presentation of its activities.

Having visited the Nations district, what could be better than a brief visit to the prestigious Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Returning via the Parc de la Perle du Lac to admire the view over the Alps and the southern shore is an excellent idea. You can prolong you walk along the Quai Wilson. This offers a view of the famous Palais Wilson, home to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

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