This exhibition tells the story of the plenary sessions of the European Parliament, from its inception in 1952 to its historic development through direct elections and the growth of the EU. Focusing on plenary highlights, from Members’ speeches to inspiring visits to Parliament, we tell Parliament’s story through the people who shaped the European Union from within the hemicycle.
For over 70 years, the plenary sessions of the European Parliament have been a sounding board for issues facing EU citizens. Gathering hundreds of Members from all across the European Union, the hemicycles in Strasbourg, Brussels and Luxembourg have played host to discussions and debates, commemorations and celebrations. Discover the history here.
Did you know that the European Parliament is the only EU institution that meets publicly? All the plenary sessions and committee meetings are live-streamed with interpretation into other official EU languages to make them accessible to everyone. Recordings are available on the European Parliament Multimedia Centre.
Curious about what the European Parliament does? Visit the Parliament in Strasbourg, Brussels and Luxembourg, or a Europa Experience visitor centre in one of twelve cities across the EU, free of charge, all year round. From guided tours to interactive exhibitions, you can find out what the EU and your MEPs do for you. Get all the info you need here.
Plenary sessions are a high point in the work of Members of the European Parliament. A complex operation, the sessions depend on the work of many people to ensure the most productive debates on issues faced by citizens. To find out more about how plenary works and to keep up to date with the agenda and legislation as it moves through the Parliament, visit the official plenary website.
When global figures want to speak to Europeans they speak in the European Parliament.
Discover the history of the European Parliament hemicycle and highlights from over 70 years of plenary sessions here.
