- History and visit the Place de la Concorde in Paris
- Curiosities around the Place de la Concorde in Paris
- Transfer to the Place de la Concorde in Paris
History and visit the Place de la Concorde in Paris
The Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris, covering 8.64 hectares. Located in the 8th arrondissement, it spans the district of La Madeleine, measuring 359 meters in length and 212 meters in width. The square was established in 1772 and has been known by various names over the years, including Place Louis XV, Revolution Square, Place Louis XVI, and Place of the Charter. Its current name, “Place de la Concorde,” was assigned in 1830.
Opening onto Rue Royale and the Pont de la Concorde, the square stands as a remarkable achievement of the Enlightenment era. Architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel and sculptor Edme Bouchardon designed it as a departure from the French rococo style. Its name has shifted according to the political climate and significant events in France. Initially constructed in honor of King Louis XV, the square became an emblematic location during the French Revolution. Figures like Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, Danton, Robespierre, and over a thousand royalists met their fate here. It wasn’t until the reign of Louis-Philippe in 1830 that it was renamed “Place de la Concorde.”
Historically, the square featured an equestrian statue of Louis XV. However, the statue was demolished during the Revolution, making room for the guillotine. Restoration took place under Louis-Philippe, guided by the original designs of Jacques-Ange Gabriel.
Curiosities around the Place de la Concorde in Paris
In close proximity to the Place de la Concorde, visitors can find numerous historical and cultural attractions. The Tuileries Garden, adjacent to the square, offers a beautiful expanse of greenery, statues, and water features. It provides a serene setting for leisurely strolls and is home to the Orangerie Museum, which houses Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces.
Another significant monument is the Luxor Obelisk, standing at the center of the Place de la Concorde. This ancient Egyptian obelisk, over 3,000 years old, was gifted to France in the 19th century. Two ornate fountains, the Fountain of the Seas and the Fountain of the Rivers, also adorn the square, drawing the admiration of locals and tourists alike.
The Place de la Concorde also provides a direct view of the Champs-Elysées, leading up to the Arc de Triomphe. This famous avenue is lined with theaters, cafes, and luxury shops, making it a vibrant hub of Parisian life.
Transfer to the Place de la Concorde in Paris
The Place de la Concorde is situated 29 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, 19.3 km from Orly Airport, and 87.2 km from Beauvais Airport. When considering the best mode of transportation from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport to a hotel in Paris, factors like cost, convenience, luggage, and comfort are crucial. Although taxis provide direct routes, their costs can be significantly higher, especially during peak traffic times. Alternatively, public transportation, including the RER and metro, offers a more cost-effective solution. However, this option can be cumbersome for those with heavy luggage or after a long flight. Direct shuttle services provide a balanced solution, offering a direct route to your hotel without the high costs and physical demands of other transportation methods. Feedback from travelers suggests that these shuttles are reliable, avoiding issues such as delays or non-appearances that add stress to your journey. For many, the shuttle service stands out as an optimal choice, blending efficiency with cost-effectiveness, and ensuring a smooth, comfortable arrival in Paris.