Place de la Concorde, Historical square in 8th arrondissement, France
The square spreads across the eighth arrondissement between the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Garden, forming an open paved space with sightlines in every direction. Two large fountains with sculptures and an Egyptian granite obelisk structure the wide expanse and set vertical accents against the low buildings around the edges.
The square was created in the mid-eighteenth century as a royal site and later became the stage for executions during the Revolutionary years. After the Terror ended, it received its current name and urban planning transformed it into an open junction between the new Parisian axes.
The name Concorde means harmony and was chosen after the Revolution to mark a fresh start following years of bloodshed. The eight stone statues stand along the perimeter in careful symmetry, showing the territorial divisions of France during the nineteenth century.
The location sits near several metro lines and allows quick crossing on foot, though visitors should watch for heavy car traffic. Early morning or late evening hours offer more calm for a longer walk around the fountains and the obelisk.
The tip of the obelisk carries a gilded pyramid that was only added in 1998 to replace the missing original. Close inspection reveals inscriptions in hieroglyphs glorifying Pharaoh Ramses II that have remained unchanged for over three thousand years.
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