History of parisian squares - activities

Place de l'Hôtel de Ville: one of Paris's most historic squares

The Place de l'Hôtel de Ville hasn't always been the lively, cheerful spot in the heart of Paris. Indeed, it was here that many public executions took place over the centuries. You'll never see the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville in the same light again!

Did you know? The Statue of Joan of Arc in Paris has been secretly replaced

The equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, which stands proudly on the Place des Pyramides in the 1st arrondissement, is one of Paris's most emblematic monuments. Since its creation in the 19th century, it has never ceased to be a political issue, although its history remains little-known. Did you know that the statue we admire today is not the original, but a replica secretly substituted by the artist himself?

History of Place des Victoires

Place des Victoires is one of the four royal squares in Paris. Dedicated to the military victories of Louis XIV, this square on the borders of the 1st and 2nd arrondissements is a symbol of the Sun King's power. Here's a look back at the history of this legendary square!

History of the Place de la Concorde

The Place de la Concorde is the capital's largest square. It was here, at the start of the Champs-Elysées, that Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette were guillotined. Today, it is one of the most famous squares in Paris, and its famous golden-tipped obelisk still dominates the city.

History of the Place de la Nation

Originally erected in honor of the marriage of Louis XIV and Marie-Thérèse of Austria, the Place de la Nation became the site of countless public executions under the guillotine during the French Revolution. In 2019, the Place de la Nation will take on yet another new look, with a plan by Paris City Hall to green the entire square and reduce car traffic.

History of Place de la République

The Place de la République underwent many architectural and artistic changes before taking on the appearance you know today. Here's a look back at the history of this great historic square.

History of the Place de la Bastille

A symbol of the French Revolution, the Place de la Bastille has had an eventful history. It was here that the famous Bastille Prison stood, destroyed stone by stone during the Revolution. At its center, the beautiful Colonne de Juillet and its golden Génie de la Liberté can be seen from a great distance.