| The Largest Square of Paris |
Place de la Concorde, the largest public square in Paris, is a site rich in history, art, and culture. Located at the Eastern end of the Champs-Élysées, this iconic square has witnessed some of France’s most pivotal moments, from royal celebrations to the grim executions of the French Revolution. Today, it stands as a stunning landmark, blending historical significance with architectural grandeur. Let’s take a deep dive into the fascinating history and attractions of Place de la Concorde.
Place de la Concorde Historical Background
Originally commissioned in the 18th century, Place de la Concorde was designed by architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel. It was initially named Place Louis XV, honoring the reigning king at the time. The octagonal square featured an equestrian statue of the king at its center, showcasing the monarchy’s grandeur.
The French Revolution and Its Dark Past
During the French Revolution, the square was renamed Place de la Révolution and became a significant execution site. Indeed, the infamous guillotine was erected here, claiming the lives of King Louis XVI, Queen Marie Antoinette, and thousands of others during the Reign of Terror. The monarchy’s downfall marked a turning point in French history, and thus the square became a symbol of both power and upheaval.
The Transformation Over the Years
After the revolution, the square was renamed Place de la Concorde in 1795, symbolizing national reconciliation. Over the years, the area was redesigned, incorporating the stunning landmarks we see today, including the Luxor Obelisk and magnificent fountains. After various name changes under Napoleon, it was only under Louis-Philippe, in 1830, that it finally took back its current name: “Place de la Concorde”. Concorde means peace that results from good understanding; union of wills.
Architectural and Artistic Marvels
The Place de la Concorde is one of the major public squares in Paris, France. Measuring 7.6 ha (19 acres) in area, it is the largest square in the French capital. It is located in the city’s eighth arrondissement, at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées.
The Luxor Obelisk
One of the most striking features of Place de la Concorde is the Luxor Obelisk, a 3,300-year-old Egyptian monument gifted by Muhammad Ali of Egypt in the 19th century. Standing 23 meters tall, this pink granite monolith is covered in hieroglyphics and serves as a testament to France’s historical connections with Egypt. The obelisk, a yellow granite column, rises 23 metres (75 ft) high, including the base, and weighs over 250 tonnes (280 short tons). Given the technical limitations of the day, transporting it was no easy feat – on the pedestal are drawn diagrams explaining the machinery that was used for the transportation. The government of France added a gold-leafed pyramidal cap to the top of the obelisk in 1998, replacing the missing original, believed stolen in the 6th century BC.
Fountains of Place de la Concorde
The square boasts two breathtaking fountains: Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves. These masterpieces, designed in the 19th century, feature elaborate sculptures representing river gods, mythical sea creatures, and flowing water, adding to the square’s artistic elegance. When he had completed the installation of the Luxor Obelisk, in 1836, Jacques-Ignace Hittorff, chief architect of the square, moved ahead with two new fountains to complement the obelisk. Hittorff had been a student of the Neoclassical designer Charles Percier at the École des Beaux-Arts. He had spent two years studying the architecture and fountains of Rome, particularly the Piazza Navona and Piazza San Pietro, each of which had obelisks aligned with fountains. Hittorff’s fountains were each nine meters high, matching the height of the earlier columns and statues around the Place representing great French cities.
- The Maritime Fountain was on the south, between the obelisk and Seine
- The Fluvial Fountains or river fountain, on the north, between the Obelisk and Rue Royale
Major Buildings
The north side of the square, along the Rue de Rivoli, is occupied by two palatial buildings, whose matching facades were designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel. They are separated by the Rue Royale, which enters the square from the north and was also designed by Gabriel. He planned the harmonious facades of the buildings along Rue Royale, including the facade and interior of his own residence at Number eight.
Hôtel de Crillon
This luxurious 18th-century palace-turned-hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries for centuries. It remains one of Paris’s most prestigious accommodations. Number 10 was occupied by the Duc d’Aumont beginning in 1775. He ceded it in 1788 to the Duke of Crillon, who emigrated from France during the French Revolution. The Duchess of Crillon returned and she and her descendants occupied it from 1820 until 1904. In 1909 it became a hotel for wealthy travellers, the Hotel Crillon.
The French Naval Ministry (Hôtel de la Marine)
Located on the northern side of the square, this building once housed France’s naval ministry. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing France’s naval history and stunning period interiors. The Hôtel de la Marine, was originally the royal Garde-Meuble, the depot for all the royal furnishings. Marie-Antoinette also had a small apartment there. In 1792, during the Revolution, it became the headquarters of the French Navy. The Navy departed in 2015, and the building is now a national monument and museum.
The Tuileries Garden
Adjacent to the square, the Tuileries Garden offers a scenic escape with beautifully manicured lawns, sculptures, and fountains. It is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. The Tuileries Garden is a Parisian park with fence in the 1st arrondissement from the 16th century, on the site of a tile factory. In French, tile factory is tuilerie. It is bounded by the Louvre Palace to the south-east, the rue de Rivoli to the north-east, the Place de la Concorde to the north-west and the Seine to the south-west. It is the largest and oldest French-style garden in the capital, which once was that of the Tuileries Palace, a former royal and imperial residence, now disappeared. The Tuileries Garden is a historical monument since 1914.
The Role of Concorde in French History
As mentioned earlier, Place de la Concorde was the primary execution ground during the French Revolution. The guillotine was stationed here, witnessing the fall of the monarchy and the rise of a new era. Today, Place de la Concorde is a venue for national events, parades, and celebrations, including the Bastille Day military parade. It remains a focal point for gatherings and commemorations. The square frequently hosts exhibitions, rallies, and performances, making it an ever-evolving cultural hub.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
- Champs-Élysées – The most famous avenue in Paris
- Arc de Triomphe – To remember Napoleon Grande Armée
- Louvre Museum – Home to the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces
- Orangerie Museum – Showcasing Monet’s Water Lilies
- Orsay Museum – Paris Impressionism and its major painters
To conclude
Place de la Concorde is not just a historic landmark; it is a testament to France’s resilience, artistry, and cultural evolution. From its grim revolutionary past to its modern-day charm, the square remains one of the most significant and visually stunning places in Paris.
Have a walking private tour guide in Paris to discover the story behing the largest square of Paris.
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FAQs
Why is Place de la Concorde famous?
It is famous for its history, including its role in the French Revolution, and its stunning architectural features.
What happened to King Louis XVI at Place de la Concorde?
By guillotine here during the French Revolution in 1793.
Can you visit the Luxor Obelisk?
Yes, it is accessible to the public, and you can walk around and admire its ancient inscriptions.
What are some nearby attractions to Place de la Concorde?
The Champs-Élysées, Louvre Museum, and Tuileries Garden are within walking distance.
Is Place de la Concorde free to visit?
Yes, the square is open to the public and free to explore.