Exhibition
Since 1952, Strasbourg has been home to the European Parliament and its monthly plenary sessions. The establishment of Parliament’s seat in the capital city of Alsace, which prides itself on its long-standing European vocation, underlines the importance of the Franco-German reconciliation and the cessation of the armed conflicts that bloodied the European continent for so long.
Maison de l’Europe
In 1952, the Common Assembly of the European Coal and Steel Community held its inaugural session at the Maison de l’Europe. In 1958, the European Parliamentary Assembly of the new European Communities (later called the European Parliament) held its first plenary session in Strasbourg.
Willy Brandt, Chancellor of West Germany, addresses the plenary at the Maison de l’Europe in 1973.
The unification of Europe is not merely a question of the quality of our existence. It is a question of survival between the giants and in the rugged world of the young and the old nationalisms. ... Let me now speak on European unification and say something I would not have said in this way ten years ago: we can, and we will, create Europe!
Willy Brandt, 13 November 1973
Palais de l’Europe
Over the years, the plenary sessions have been held in several sites across the city. The Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg was inaugurated in 1977.
On 12 May 1992, Queen Elizabeth II visits the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
The WEISS building
Since it opened in 1999, the WEISS building, which is named after Louise Weiss and houses the iconic hemicycle, has been the embodiment of Parliament’s presence in Strasbourg. It is the physical expression of an open and transparent democracy. The top of the building, which still looks unfinished, represents the ongoing nature of the European project.
Louise Weiss’ life is one of action, with almost 70 years spent at the forefront of political struggles in Europe. In 1999, the European Parliament paid homage to Louise Weiss by naming the home of the Parliamentary Chamber and the Members’ offices in Strasbourg in her honour.
I feel as though my experience throughout this century and my travels throughout the world were destined to culminate in my meeting with you today: I come to you as one who loves Europe.
Louise Weiss, 17 July 1979