In 1926, a pivotal moment unfolded at the League of Nations, nestled within the Hôtel National. The Assembly, during an extraordinary session about Germany’s membership, decided to build a grand new home. This home would eventually become the Palace of Nations. An international architectural competition was launched, attracting 377 ambitious projects. The jury couldn’t decide on one winner. So, five architects from different countries were chosen to collaborate. They were Julien Flegenheimer of Switzerland, Camille Lefèvre and Henri-Paul Nénot of France, Carlo Broggi of Italy, and József Vágó of Hungary. A generous donation of $2 million from John D. Rockefeller Jr. led to the inclusion of a library, expanding the project’s scope. The Palace of Nations needed a larger plot of land than initially planned. The city of Geneva offered a solution: Ariana Park, a sprawling 46-hectare space bequeathed to the city. On September 7, 1929, the foundation stone was laid, containing a time capsule. This capsule held a list of League of Nations members, a copy of the Covenant, and coins from each represented country. The Palace of Nations, built in the art deco style, finally opened its doors in 1936. The League of Nations, however, met its end in 1946. The Palace of Nations became the European headquarters of the newly formed United Nations. The Palace of Nations continued to grow. Extensions were added between 1950 and 1952, and again from 1968 to 1973, creating more office and conference space. The Palace of Nations today continues to serve as a vital hub for international diplomacy. It stands as a symbol of cooperation and a testament to the enduring pursuit of peace.
Monument des Communes réunies Statue
Carouge in 1816. Imagine the whispers, the hushed excitement as 24 communes decided to join the canton of Geneva. This