The Palace of Europe is a large 20th Century building close to the heart of Strasbourg which houses the Council of Europe. Built by architect Henry Bernard, the building was inaugurated in 1977 and was intended to create another seat of power for the rapidly growing European Union. The outside of the building resembles a medieval fortress in some ways because of its narrow slits in the side which look like arrow stations. This is a working building that attracts many visitors throughout the year.