Most Hated Tower in Paris (Tour Montparnasse)

As you stand in the Montparnasse district of Paris, the dark glass tower of Tour Montparnasse rises sharply above the surrounding city. Completed in 1973, it stands in stark contrast to the historic architecture that defines Paris, and is often cited by locals and visitors alike as the city’s most controversial-if not its least admired-building. Its modern, monolithic design disrupted the traditional skyline so significantly that it helped lead to strict limits on building heights in central Paris. Over time, it has gained a reputation not for beauty, but for what it lacks in harmony with its surroundings. Yet, despite this reputation, the tower offers one of the most celebrated views in the city. From its observation deck, the entirety of Paris stretches out in every direction-the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, and the uniform rooftops that define the city’s character. There is a long-standing sentiment among visitors: the best view of Paris is from the top of Tour Montparnasse, because it is the only place where you do not have to see Tour Montparnasse itself.