The United Nations Building

Visit the European Headquarters of the UN

Talk of the town: A time capsule beneath the Palais des Nations' foundation stone contains a document with the names of the League of Nations member states, precursor to the United Nations.
Word to the wise: You must bring a valid photo ID with you to visit the building.

This sprawling complex is one of Geneva's most famous landmarks, where thousands of delegates meet to negotiate world peace. The United Nations Office at Geneva is the second largest UN Centre after the UN Headquarters in New York. The main building (the Palais des Nations) was erected between 1929 and 1936 for the League of Nations, the precursor to the UN.
The Palais des Nations is situated in a beautiful park with a variety of old trees, huge lawns and free roaming peacocks. The building itself contains sculptures, stained glass, frescoes, tapestries, and paintings that have been donated by member states. The palais is only accessible to the public via guided tours. They are available in more than 15 languages and last an hour. Among the sites you will see are the Council Chamber where many historic and important negotiations have taken place, and the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room.