Name: Place de la Concorde
Address: 75008 Paris, France
Rating: 4.5

Major public square, scene of executions, decorated with fountains, statues & an Egyptian obelisk.

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Place de la Concorde

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The Place de la Concorde features a 3,300-year-old Egyptian obelisk, originally from the Luxor Temple, gifted to France in 1929.

Ancient Obelisk

During the French Revolution, the square was the site of public executions, including those of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette in 1793.

Site of Executions

The square hosted the Paris Universal Exposition of 1900, which left behind the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais.

World's Fair

The 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts, held in the square, gave its name to the Art Deco architectural style.

Architectural Style

The square was the site of triumphant celebrations for the French national team's victory in the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

World Cup Celebrations

Every year on Bastille Day, a military parade led by the President of France marches through Place de la Concorde from the Arc de Triomphe.

Military Parade

The final stretch of the Tour de France always ends in Paris, with the cyclists pulling through Place de la Concorde.

Final Stretch

The Place de la Concorde, an iconic square in Paris, France, is a historical and architectural marvel. Once known as Place Louis XV, it was renamed in 1795 as a symbol of reconciliation after the French Revolution. The square is renowned for its central Luxor Obelisk, a 3,300-year-old Egyptian artifact gifted to France in the 19th century. Flanking the obelisk are two monumental fountains, the Fontaine Maritime and Fontaine Fluviale, designed by Jacques-Ignace Hittorff.

The square's north side is adorned by the Hôtel de la Marine and the Hôtel de Crillon, two palatial buildings with identical Neoclassical facades. The east side is bordered by the Tuileries Garden, featuring the Jeu de Paume and Orangerie museums. The square has witnessed significant historical events, including the execution of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution. Today, it serves as a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe.

Introduction

The Place de la Concorde in Paris is adorned with two monumental fountains, the Fontaine des Mers and the Fontaine des Fleuves, which stand as magnificent tributes to France's maritime and riverine heritage. Designed by Jacques Ignace Hittorff, these fountains were completed in 1840 and have since become iconic symbols of the square.

The Fontaine des Mers, located on the southern side, celebrates France's maritime prowess. Its upper basin features sculptures representing the Spirit of Maritime Navigation, Astronomy, and Trade, while the lower basin depicts allegorical figures of the Mediterranean, the Ocean, and Fishing.

On the northern side stands the Fontaine des Fleuves, honoring France's river trade and navigation. Its upper basin showcases sculptures symbolizing the Rhine and Rhone Rivers, along with depictions of Grapes and Wheat Crops, embodying the nation's Spirit of Navigation, Agriculture, and Industry.

Both fountains share a common basin design, adorned with Tritons and Neriads clasping dolphins that spout water from their mouths. These exquisite figures are lavishly embellished with intricate details, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail of the artisans.

The fountains are not merely decorative elements but also serve as historical markers, reflecting the evolution of the Place de la Concorde. Their placement, framing the Luxor Obelisk and aligning with the Rue Royale, the Madeleine Church, and the Pont de la Concorde, contributes to the square's harmonious symmetry.

Today, the Place de la Concorde Fountains stand as enduring testaments to the artistic vision of Hittorff and the rich history of Paris. They continue to captivate visitors with their grandeur, symbolism, and intricate beauty, making them an essential destination for anyone seeking to delve into the cultural and architectural heritage of the City of Lights.

Place de la Concorde Fountains

From the serene vistas of the Tuileries Garden, the Place de la Concorde emerges as a grand spectacle, its vast expanse unfolding beyond the garden's western edge. This iconic square, once the site of the ill-fated Louis XVI's execution, has witnessed centuries of history and remains a poignant symbol of both triumph and tragedy.

As you gaze across the Place de la Concorde from the garden's terrace, the majestic obelisk of Luxor dominates the scene, its towering presence a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt. Flanking the obelisk are two monumental fountains, their cascading waters adding a touch of tranquility to the bustling square.

Beyond the fountains, the Champs-Élysées stretches out like a radiant ribbon, beckoning visitors towards the Arc de Triomphe. This grand boulevard, lined with opulent shops and historic landmarks, forms a breathtaking axis that connects the Tuileries Garden to the heart of Paris.

From the garden's perspective, the Place de la Concorde offers a unique vantage point to observe the ebb and flow of Parisian life. The square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, who come to admire its architectural splendor, stroll along its wide sidewalks, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

As the sun begins its descent, the Place de la Concorde transforms into a magical realm. The obelisk casts a long shadow across the square, while the fountains illuminate the surrounding area with a warm glow. The Champs-Élysées twinkles with a thousand lights, creating an enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable evening in the heart of Paris.

The Hôtel de la Marine, an architectural masterpiece on the Place de la Concorde, stands as a testament to the grandeur of 18th-century France. Its identical twin, the Hôtel de Crillon, mirrors its neoclassical facade across the bustling Rue Royale. Originally conceived as the royal Garde-Meuble, the Hôtel de la Marine housed the crown's priceless furnishings and art. Its opulent salons and chambers, meticulously restored, now offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the French monarchy.

The building's facade, designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel, is a symphony of columns and medallions, echoing the grandeur of the Louvre Palace. Its distinctive loggia, a covered passageway lined with Corinthian columns, creates a play of light and shadow, adding depth to the facade. The courtyard of the Intendant, now adorned with a modern glass skylight, serves as the entrance to the Hôtel de la Marine, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and architectural splendor.

Hôtel de la Marine

From the majestic heights of the Arc de Triomphe, the Place de la Concorde unfolds as a grand stage where history and grandeur intertwine. This iconic square, situated at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées, forms a visual axis with the triumphal arch, creating a breathtaking vista that symbolizes French national pride.

The obelisk of Luxor, a towering monolith gifted by Egypt in 1831, stands at the center of the Place de la Concorde. Its hieroglyphs whisper tales of ancient pharaohs, while its presence evokes the deep historical ties between France and the cradle of civilization. The square's fountains, adorned with allegorical sculptures, add an element of tranquility amidst the bustling city.

During the French Revolution, the Place de la Concorde witnessed the tragic execution of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The guillotine, a grim symbol of that tumultuous era, once stood where the obelisk now resides. Today, the square serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of power and the resilience of the human spirit.

From the vantage point of the Arc de Triomphe, one can observe the annual Bastille Day military parade, a grand spectacle that commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789. The parade, with its marching soldiers, military vehicles, and aerial displays, pays homage to France's military heritage and its commitment to liberty and equality.

The Place de la Concorde is not merely a historical site but also a vibrant public space. Parisians and tourists alike gather here to relax, admire the surroundings, and soak up the atmosphere of one of the world's most famous squares. From the Arc de Triomphe, this urban tapestry unfolds, a testament to the enduring legacy of France and the enduring power of its iconic landmarks.

Place de la Concorde, a pivotal stage in the French Revolution, witnessed the dramatic fall of the monarchy and the rise of a new era. In 1792, the square was renamed Place de la Révolution, becoming the site of the guillotine that claimed the lives of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The square's central pedestal, once adorned with a statue of Louis XV, became the grim backdrop for these executions.

During the Reign of Terror, the guillotine remained a constant presence, claiming over 1,100 lives. Notable victims included Charlotte Corday, Madame du Barry, and Maximilien Robespierre, the architect of the Terror. The square became a symbol of both the revolution's ideals and its excesses.

In 1795, as the revolution subsided, the square was renamed Place de la Concorde, a gesture of reconciliation. However, its revolutionary legacy remained etched in its history. The Luxor Obelisk, erected in 1836, stands as a poignant reminder of the square's tumultuous past.

Today, Place de la Concorde is a vibrant public space, but its revolutionary history continues to resonate. Visitors can explore the square's monuments and fountains, each with its own story to tell. The square remains a testament to the transformative power of revolution and the enduring spirit of the French people.

French Revolution

Place de la Concorde, a grand square in Paris, bears a somber history as the site of numerous guillotine executions during the French Revolution. In 1793, the square, then known as Place de la Révolution, witnessed the execution of King Louis XVI, followed by Marie Antoinette a few months later. The guillotine was erected in the square's center, becoming a grim symbol of the Reign of Terror. Over 1,100 people met their end here, including prominent figures like Charlotte Corday and Maximilien Robespierre. The square's bloody past is commemorated by a plaque at the foot of the Luxor Obelisk, a towering monument that now stands in the center of Place de la Concorde.

Guillotine Executions

From the opulent confines of the Crillon Hotel, Place de la Concorde unfolds as a majestic tableau. The hotel's grand facade overlooks this iconic square, where history and grandeur intertwine. In 1778, the Crillon witnessed the signing of the Franco-American treaty, a pivotal moment in the American Revolution. The square's central obelisk, a gift from Egypt, stands tall, a poignant reminder of the Crillon's connection to global events.

The hotel's privileged location offers unparalleled views of the square's lively atmosphere. Guests can watch the world go by from the hotel's elegant balconies, sipping champagne as they soak in the Parisian ambiance. The Crillon's concierge can arrange private tours of the square, revealing hidden gems and sharing captivating stories of its past.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the Crillon's partnership with the Musée du Louvre grants exclusive access to the museum's masterpieces. Guests can wander through the galleries, guided by the hotel's knowledgeable staff, discovering the secrets behind iconic works of art.

The Crillon's proximity to Place de la Concorde makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city's other landmarks. The Champs-Élysées, with its designer boutiques and vibrant nightlife, is just a short stroll away. The Tuileries Garden, with its manicured lawns and serene atmosphere, offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city.

For those seeking a luxurious and historically rich experience in the heart of Paris, the Crillon Hotel and Place de la Concorde offer an unforgettable combination of elegance, history, and cultural immersion.

Crillon Hotel

The Place de la Concorde, a prominent Parisian square, once held a majestic equestrian statue of King Louis XV. Commissioned in 1748, the statue symbolized the king's recovery from illness and was intended to glorify his reign. However, the statue's fate took a dramatic turn during the French Revolution.

In 1792, amidst revolutionary fervor, the statue was toppled and melted down. Its pedestal, designed by Jean Chalgrin, remained, bearing bronze statues representing virtues like Force and Justice. The square, renamed Place de la Révolution, became a stage for public executions, including that of Louis XVI.

Today, the Place de la Concorde stands as a poignant reminder of the tumultuous events that unfolded there. The pedestal of the Louis XV statue serves as a silent witness to the rise and fall of a monarchy, while the square itself has evolved into a vibrant public space, hosting national celebrations and events.

Louis XV Statue

At the eastern end of the illustrious Champs-Élysées, where the grand avenue culminates, lies the Place de la Concorde, an iconic square steeped in history and grandeur. This vast expanse, measuring an impressive 7.6 hectares, serves as a majestic gateway to the Champs-Élysées, framing its western terminus with architectural splendor.

The Place de la Concorde's origins are intertwined with the Champs-Élysées. In the 18th century, as the Champs-Élysées was being transformed into a magnificent promenade, the square was conceived as its eastern anchor. Designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel, it was initially known as the Place Louis XV, honoring the reigning monarch.

The square's significance extends beyond its architectural beauty. It has witnessed pivotal moments in French history, including the execution of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution. In 1795, it was renamed Place de la Concorde, symbolizing the reconciliation and unity sought after the tumultuous years of revolution.

Today, the Place de la Concorde stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Champs-Élysées. Its central obelisk, a gift from Egypt, commemorates the military victories of Pharaoh Ramses II. The surrounding fountains and sculptures add to the square's grandeur, creating a harmonious ensemble that complements the Champs-Élysées' vibrant atmosphere.

At the heart of the iconic Place de la Concorde in Paris stands a majestic Egyptian obelisk, a silent sentinel that has witnessed centuries of history. This ancient monolith, known as the Luxor Obelisk, was gifted to France by the Viceroy of Egypt in 1831 and erected in its current location in 1836.

Measuring an impressive 23 meters in height and weighing over 250 tons, the Luxor Obelisk is a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Egypt. Its four sides are adorned with intricate hieroglyphics that glorify the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II. Originally marking the entrance to the Luxor Temple, it was transported to Paris in a custom-built ship, a testament to the engineering ingenuity of the time.

The obelisk's journey to Paris was fraught with challenges, but it was eventually raised on a pedestal adorned with diagrams depicting the complex machinery used in its transportation. In 1998, a gold-leafed pyramid cap was added to its summit, replacing the original cap believed to have been stolen centuries ago.

Today, the Luxor Obelisk stands as a symbol of the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt and the enduring friendship between France and Egypt. It has witnessed countless events, from the bloody days of the French Revolution to the triumphant parades of the modern era. Its presence at Place de la Concorde serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that connects civilizations across time and continents.

Place de la Concorde

Did You Know?

Ancient Obelisk

Site of Executions

World's Fair

Architectural Style

Highlights from Reviews

Location