Introduction
Place de la Concorde is one of the most iconic places in Paris and it is hard to imagine a visit to the city of lights without a stop at this grand square. It is a symbol of France’s grandeur and magnificence, as well as a reminder of its tumultuous past. From its inception, this iconic square has gone through many changes, making it one of the most visited tourist spots in the City of Lights. Here is a closer look at Place de la Concorde and the story behind it.
History of Place de la Concorde
Place de la Concorde was originally known as Place Louis XV when it was first built in 1755. It was designed by the renowned architect Jacques-Ange Gabriel and it was intended to serve as a grand entrance to the Palace of Versailles. The square was later renamed Place de la Revolution in 1792, during the French Revolution. This was the site of the execution of many famous figures, such as Marie Antoinette and Maximilien Robespierre. In 1836, the square was renamed Place de la Concorde in a gesture of reconciliation and peace.
The Obelisk of Luxor
At the center of Place de la Concorde is the Obelisk of Luxor, which was gifted to France by the Viceroy of Egypt in 1829. It was moved to the square in 1836 and it now stands as a symbol of the strong ties between France and Egypt. The obelisk is a single block of pink granite that is about 23 meters high and it is decorated with hieroglyphics that describe the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II.
The Fountains
The Obelisk of Luxor is framed by two fountains on either side, each of which was designed by Jacques-Ignace Hittorff. The north fountain features a bronze sculpture of a woman standing atop a tall column of water, while the south fountain features a bronze sculpture of a lion.
The Trees
The square is lined with rows of trees that were planted in 1836. The trees are a mix of horse chestnuts and lindens, which are known for their fragrant flowers.
The Surroundings
Surrounding the square are some of the most famous monuments in Paris, such as the Luxor Column, the Tuileries Palace, and the Champs-Élysées. The square is also lined with luxury hotels and restaurants, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Conclusion
Place de la Concorde is a symbol of France’s grandeur and magnificence, and it is hard to imagine a visit to Paris without a stop at this iconic square. From its inception, the square has gone through many changes, making it one of the most visited tourist spots in the City of Lights. With its Obelisk of Luxor, fountains, and surrounding monuments, Place de la Concorde is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Paris.