Place Saint-Michel

Place Saint-Michel is a pedestrian square located in the neighborhoods of the Sorbonne and Monnaie districts in Paris. The space features a large tiered area with steps, seating options, and the Fontaine Saint-Michel as its central focal point.

The square was developed in the 19th century under Baron Haussmann's urban planning efforts and has remained a central hub in the Latin Quarter ever since. The area surrounding it evolved into a center of student and intellectual life throughout the following decades.

Place Saint-Michel serves as a meeting point where students and young visitors gather throughout the day, shaping how the space is used and experienced. The constant flow of people creates a sense of social life in this central location.

The square is easily accessible on foot and situated near several metro stations as well as the Seine River. It is best visited during daytime when light is better and the surrounding area shows its full activity.

The Fontaine Saint-Michel was reconstructed multiple times and is not the original monument that Haussmann envisioned. This hidden history shows how even well-known places transform and evolve over the years.

Location: Quartier de la Sorbonne

Location: Quartier de la Monnaie

Inception: 1855

Operator: Ville de Paris

Part of: road network of Paris

Shares border with: boulevard Saint-Michel, place Saint-André-des-Arts, quai des Grands-Augustins, quai Saint-Michel, rue de la Huchette, rue de l'Hirondelle, rue Saint-André-des-Arts, pont Saint-Michel

Address: Pl. Saint-Michel, 75006 Paris, France

GPS coordinates: 48.85333,2.34389

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:27