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TLDR: Place de la Concorde is Paris's largest public square, famous for its ancient Egyptian Obelisk and its dark history as the site of the guillotine during the French Revolution. It is free to visit 24/7 and serves as the grand gateway between the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Garden.
Once known as the Place de la Révolution, this monumental square witnessed the execution of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette before being renamed to symbolize national reconciliation ("Concord"). Today, it is a hub of Parisian life, offering some of the city's most iconic photo opportunities.
This guide provides the historical context of the French Revolution, practical transport info, and a checklist of the monuments you’ll see at the center of the square.
What is the story behind Place de la Concorde?
Place de la Concorde was commissioned in 1748 to celebrate King Louis XV’s recovery from illness. Originally named Place Louis XV, the square was designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel and became the backdrop for royal processions and public events. But the winds of change swept through with the French Revolution.
In 1792, the square was renamed Place de la Révolution, and it was here that the guillotine was set up. Between 1793 and 1795, over 1,200 people were executed here – including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. Following the Revolution, the square was renamed again – this time to Place de la Concorde, to symbolize national reconciliation and peace.
Where is Place de la Concorde?
Place de la Concorde is located at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées, right between the Tuileries Garden and the grand avenue itself. It’s part of the historical axis that runs through Paris, and it connects many major landmarks, making it one of the most visited and visible locations in the city.
What is Place de la Concorde?
Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris, covering more than 8 hectares. At its center stands the Luxor Obelisk – a 3,000-year-old monument gifted by Egypt in 1831. You’ll also find two monumental fountains, ornate lampposts, and statues representing French cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux.
It’s more than just a pretty plaza – it’s a symbolic crossroad where history, architecture, and politics collide. A walk through Place de la Concorde is like flipping through a giant, open-air history book.
What to see at Place de la Concorde?
The top highlights of Place de la Concorde are:
- The Luxor Obelisk: A 3,300-year-old Egyptian monolith, the oldest monument in Paris, topped with a gleaming gold leaf cap.
- The Hittorff Fountains: Two massive fountains (Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves) inspired by those at St. Peter's Square in Rome.
- The Eight Statues: Representing major French cities (including Bordeaux, Lyon, and Marseille) positioned at the corners of the square.
- Hôtel de la Marine: The stunning 18th-century palace on the north side, now open for interior tours.
What are some practical visiting info?
Here are some quick tips for your visit:
- Best Photo Spot: Stand near the Obelisk at sunset for a perfectly aligned view through the Arc de Triomphe.
- Safety: As a major traffic roundabout, be extremely careful when crossing to the center of the square.
- Entry Fee: Access to the square and its monuments is entirely free.
How to get to Place de la Concorde?
The square is centrally located at the end of the Champs-Élysées in the 8th Arrondissement.
- Metro: Take Lines 1, 8, or 12 to the Concorde station.
- Bus: Lines 24, 42, 52, 72, 73, 84, and 94 all stop at or near the square.
- Walking: It is a 5-minute walk from the Tuileries Garden and a 10-minute walk from the Madeleine Church or the Champs-Élysées.
Why is Place de la Concorde famous?
Place de la Concorde is famous not only for its size and beauty but also for its dramatic role in French history. As the execution site during the French Revolution, it’s where the Ancien Régime met its grisly end.
It’s also the square that hosted many of Paris’s major public celebrations and political events. Today, it’s known for its photogenic views, its central location near major landmarks, and its role in French national identity.
What is the history of the Place de la Révolution and the Guillotine?
During the French Revolution (1789–1799), the square was renamed Place de la Révolution. It became the primary site for the guillotine, where over 1,200 people were executed, including King Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, and Robespierre.
The name was changed to Place de la Concorde in 1795 to mark the end of the "Reign of Terror" and signify a new era of peace and unity in France.
Is it worth seeing Place de la Concorde?
Without a doubt. Place de la Concorde is one of those rare places where beauty and brutal history coexist. Standing in the middle of the square, you can see the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, the Champs-Élysées, and the Louvre – all from one spot.
It’s a perfect starting point (or ending point) for a deep-dive into Parisian history, especially if you follow along with the StoryHunt audio walk Discover Inner Paris.
What else is nearby Place de la Concorde?
There’s a treasure trove of culture and sights just a stone’s throw from Place de la Concorde:
- Tuileries Garden – A gorgeous green space ideal for strolling, relaxing, and people-watching.
- Musée de l'Orangerie – Home to Monet’s Water Lilies and other impressionist masterpieces.
- Champs-Élysées – Arguably the most famous avenue in the world, lined with shops, cafés, and theaters.
- Seine River Cruises – Just a short walk away, these tours give you a new perspective of the city.
- Pont de la Concorde – A beautiful bridge connecting to the French National Assembly.
And best of all – the Discover Inner Paris tour lets you explore all of this while hearing the stories that bring it to life.
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