Place de la Concorde

In a city filled with monuments, museums, and beautiful boulevards, Place de la Concorde stands as one of Paris’s most iconic — and emotionally complex — places. Located between the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Garden, this grand open square is more than just a roundabout. It's a place where royalty fell, history turned, and empires passed through.

Today, it’s a stunning photo spot, a connector of major landmarks, and a symbolic space that has witnessed the best and worst of French history.

Let’s uncover its story and how you can enjoy it on your next trip to Paris.

🏛️ A Royal Beginning Turned Revolutionary

The square was originally built in 1755 and named Place Louis XV, after the king of France. At that time, it was meant to show off the monarchy’s power and elegance. A grand equestrian statue of Louis XV stood proudly in the center.But things changed quickly.

By 1789, the French Revolution was in full swing. The square became a public stage — not for celebrations, but for executions. The statue of the king was torn down, and in its place stood the guillotine.

Between 1793 and 1795, over 1,000 people were executed here, including King Louis XVI, Queen Marie Antoinette, and many nobles and revolutionaries alike.

For this reason, the square was renamed Place de la Révolution during that time.

✨ A New Name for a New Era: Concorde

After years of bloodshed and political turmoil, France needed unity. In 1795, the square was renamed Place de la Concorde — the 'Square of Harmony — as a gesture toward peace and national healing.

The new name stuck, and the square was redesigned over the years to reflect beauty, culture, and connection, rather than fear.

💬 The word 'Concorde' means agreement or harmony — a powerful reminder of what the French Republic wanted to stand for after the Revolution.

🌍 What to See at Place de la Concorde Today

Place de la Concorde is now one of the most photographed and symbolic public spaces in Paris. Here’s what you’ll see when you visit:

🗿 1. The Luxor Obelisk

At the heart of the square stands a 3,300-year-old Egyptian obelisk, a gift from Egypt in 1831. It originally stood in front of the Luxor Temple and is covered in ancient hieroglyphics.

It’s 23 meters (75 feet) tall and weighs over 200 tons. You can even see golden diagrams at its base showing how the French transported it from Egypt to Paris.

🛁 2. The Two Fountains

Inspired by the fountains of Rome, these two majestic fountains represent:

• The Fountain of the Seas, and

• The Fountain of the Rivers

They are decorated with tritons, fish, lions, and gods — and are especially magical when lit at night.

🛣️ 3. Historical Axes and Open Views

From the center of the square, you get a full line of sight:

• West: The Champs-Élysées leading to the Arc de Triomphe

• East: The Tuileries Garden and Louvre Museum

• South: Across the Seine, you’ll see the Assemblée Nationale

• North: Toward Rue Royale and La Madeleine

📸 This is one of the few places in Paris where so many historical landmarks align in perfect symmetry.

📚 Fun and Surprising Facts

• The obelisk once had a golden pyramid cap, added in 1998 to replace the original lost one.

• The square once had chains and walls around it to control access — these were removed to make it more welcoming.

• Marie Antoinette was brought here in a cart, surrounded by silent crowds, on her final day.

• The Fountains of Concorde were featured in movies, fashion shoots, and political rallies.

• Traffic around the square is chaotic, yet no traffic lights exist — it’s one of the largest open intersections in Paris.

🧳 Travel Tips and Lifehacks

• 🕰️ Go early morning or late evening for the best light and fewer people.

• 📷 Use a wide-angle lens to capture both fountains and the obelisk in one shot.

• 🌳 Walk to Tuileries Garden after – it’s a peaceful contrast to the busy square.

• 🍦 Grab a treat at Angelina nearby — one of Paris’ best hot chocolates and pastries.

• 📖 Read a bit of French history before visiting — it will deepen your experience.

🗺️ Nearby Attractions

The area around Place de la Concorde is filled with culture and beauty. Here's what’s within walking distance:

• Champs-Élysées – Starts right at the square and leads to the Arc de Triomphe

• Tuileries Garden – Gorgeous park with fountains, sculptures, and chairs

• Louvre Museum – Just a 10-minute walk through the gardens

• Orangerie Museum – Monet’s Water Lilies in a peaceful, hidden gem

• Seine Riverwalk – Perfect for photos, boat rides, or a scenic stroll