Université Paris 1 Panthéon Sorbonne Maison Internationale

In 1936 a unique building was inaugurated right here at the heart of the Universit\u00e9 Paris 1 Panth\u00e9on Sorbonne Maison Internationale. This was the Maison Internationale. It was the fourth of its kind, with predecessors in New York, Berkeley, and Chicago. What makes the Maison Internationale special is its purpose. It was intended as a common space for all the houses of the Universit\u00e9 Paris 1 Panth\u00e9on Sorbonne Maison Internationale. This was to encourage meetings and mixing between students from all over the world. The design of the Maison Internationale was entrusted to the American architect Jean-Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric Larson. He drew inspiration from classical French architecture, particularly the Ch\u00e2teau de Fontainebleau. This is evident in the “neo-Louis XIII” style of the building. American philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Junior financed the project. He had already shown his appreciation for French heritage by contributing to the restoration of the castles of Fontainebleau and Versailles. So it was fitting that he would play a part in creating this international hub. The Maison Internationale has been a haven for students since 1976. The recent renovations in 2021 and 2022 have only enhanced its appeal. Today it stands as a testament to international cooperation and the pursuit of knowledge.