Place des Vosges

Place des Vosges, located in the heart of the Marais in Paris, is one of the oldest and most charming squares in the city. Built at the beginning of the 17th century, it represents a masterpiece of symmetry and Renaissance architecture, and was the first example of a planned residential square in Paris. Its history, rich in significant events and illustrious figures, makes it a must-see for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Paris. The square was commissioned by Henry IV in 1605 and completed in 1612. Originally called Place Royale, it was conceived as part of a larger project to modernize and beautify Paris. The idea was to create a meeting place for the nobility, with elegant residences arranged uniformly around a central garden. The result was a perfect quadrilateral, with 36 identical pavilions in red brick and white stone, with blue slate mansard roofs. In the center of the square, an equestrian statue of Louis XIII was erected in 1639, celebrating the French monarchy. Place des Vosges quickly became a symbol of prestige and power, attracting numerous aristocrats and prominent figures. Among its most famous residents is the renowned writer Victor Hugo, who lived at number 6 from 1832 to 1848. His house is now a museum dedicated to his life and works, offering visitors an intimate look into the life of the great poet and novelist. From an artistic point of view, Place des Vosges is an exceptional example of Renaissance urban planning. The uniform facades of the buildings, with their elegant arcades and decorative details, create a sense of harmony and balance. The central gardens, with their fountains and well-kept flower beds, offer an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. This innovative design influenced many other squares in France and Europe, establishing a new standard for urban architecture. Politically, Place des Vosges has played an important role in the history of Paris. During the French Revolution, the square was renamed Place des Fédérés in honor of the revolutionaries who gathered here. After the Revolution, in 1800, the square took its current name in homage to the Vosges department, the first to pay taxes to the new republican government. This name change reflected the new ideals of equality and citizenship emerging in France. An interesting anecdote concerns the statue of Louis XIII. During the French Revolution, the original statue was destroyed, like many other works of art celebrating the monarchy. It was only in 1825 that a new equestrian statue of Louis XIII was placed in the center of the square, recreating the original layout and reestablishing the connection with France’s monarchical past.