Place de la Concorde is a large public square in Paris’s 8th arrondissement, between the Tuileries Garden and the Champs-Élysées. Its central Luxor Obelisk and two monumental fountains give you plenty to look at, while the open layout frames views towards the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre. The square also carries a sobering history: during the French Revolution, it was the site of the executions of Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette and many others. Walk through for the landmarks, the city views and a pause between nearby sights.
A square between major Paris landmarks
Place de la Concorde lies in Paris’s 8th arrondissement, at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées. The Tuileries Garden and Louvre are to the east, while the Champs-Élysées leads west towards the Arc de Triomphe. The Seine runs along the square’s southern side.
Its scale leaves long sightlines across the city. From the obelisk, look towards the garden and Louvre in one direction, then along the Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe in the other. The Eiffel Tower is also visible from the square. Fountains, sculptures and the surrounding architecture give you reasons to slow down and take in the views.
From Place Louis XV to Place de la Révolution
The square was planned in the 18th century and completed in the 1770s. It was first called Place Louis XV, after the king whose statue stood here. During the French Revolution, the statue was pulled down and a guillotine was erected in the square, which became known as Place de la Révolution.
Louis XVI was executed here in January 1793, followed by Marie Antoinette and many others during the Reign of Terror. The square’s present name is Place de la Concorde. Its open, elegant appearance contrasts with this history, which is not marked by a visible memorial to the executions. Knowing the site’s past adds context as you move between its monuments.
The obelisk and fountains
The Luxor Obelisk stands at the centre of the square. This ancient Egyptian monument once stood at the entrance to Luxor Temple and was given to France by Egypt. Its presence makes the obelisk the square’s most distinctive landmark and a natural point from which to orient yourself.
Two monumental fountains also decorate Place de la Concorde. Take a closer look at their sculptural details, then step back to see how they sit within the broad open space. The square is a public place to walk through and photograph; it also works as a pause on a longer route between the Tuileries Garden, the Louvre and the Champs-Élysées.
FAQ
Is Place de la Concorde free to visit?
Yes. It is a public square, and a visit is free.
How long do you need at Place de la Concorde?
Allow about 30 minutes to walk through the square and take in the obelisk, fountains and views.
What is Place de la Concorde known for?
The square is known for its Luxor Obelisk and two fountains. It was also the site of executions during the French Revolution, including those of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
What can you see from Place de la Concorde?
The square looks towards the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées, the Tuileries Garden and the Louvre.
