If you’ve ever been to Paris, chances are you’ve heard of Place de la Concorde. This iconic square is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by some of its most famous landmarks, including the Champs-Élysées, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Seine River.
But did you know that this square has not always been known by its current name? In fact, it has a long and fascinating history that dates back centuries.
The original name of Place de la Concorde was Place Louis XV. It was built in the mid-18th century during the reign of King Louis XV as a tribute to his greatness.
The square was designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel and was intended to serve as a grand entrance to the Tuileries Gardens. At the center of the square was a statue of King Louis XV on horseback.
However, this grandeur was short-lived. In 1792, during the French Revolution, King Louis XVI and his queen Marie Antoinette were executed by guillotine in front of what was then called Place Louis XV. The statue of King Louis XV was taken down and melted down to make cannons for the revolutionary army.
In 1795, after years of turmoil and bloodshed, a new government came into power in France. They renamed the square Place de la Concorde as a symbol of their desire for peace and reconciliation among all factions in society. The new name was meant to reflect a desire for harmony between different groups and an end to violence.
Since then, Place de la Concorde has continued to be an important landmark in Parisian history. It has hosted many significant events over the years, including military parades, political rallies, and cultural celebrations. Today it remains one of Paris’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at its beauty and soak up its history.
In conclusion, while it may be known today as Place de la Concorde, this iconic square has a rich and complex history that has seen it go through many changes over the centuries. From its origins as a tribute to a king to its role as a symbol of peace and harmony, this square has played an important role in the history of Paris and France. If you ever find yourself in the City of Lights, be sure to take some time to explore this fascinating part of its past.
9 Related Question Answers Found
La Place de la Concorde, one of the most iconic squares in Paris, has a rich history and a former name that is not widely known. Situated at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées, this grand square has witnessed significant events and undergone numerous transformations throughout the years. The Former Name of La Place De La Concorde:
Before being known as La Place de la Concorde, this square had a rather sinister name – it was called “Place de la Révolution.” The name change occurred after the French Revolution came to an end.
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