The Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, is much more than a luxurious hotel in the heart of Paris. Its story stretches back centuries, intertwined with royalty, revolution, and the city’s artistic and political fabric. Standing at the foot of the iconic Champs-Élysées, it embodies the elegance and grandeur of French history, holding a special place in the city’s heart.
A Royal Beginning
The building that now houses the iconic hotel was originally commissioned by King Louis XV in 1758. The celebrated architect, Ange-Jacques Gabriel, was tasked with constructing two identical palaces, designed to serve as state offices, on the Place de la Concorde. These majestic structures, separated by the Rue Royale, became symbols of the French monarchy’s power and prestige.
The eastern building, known as Hôtel de la Marine, housed the headquarters of the French Navy until 2015. However, the western building, destined to become the Hôtel de Crillon, was initially occupied by Louis Marie Augustin, Duke of Aumont, a renowned patron of the arts. The building was further enhanced by its second owner, the architect Louis-François Trouard, who added the exquisite Salon de Aigles in 1775, adding to its already considerable architectural splendor.
A Witness to History
The Hôtel de Crillon has been a silent witness to some of the most significant events in French history. On February 6th, 1778, it hosted a momentous event – the signing of the first treaties between the newly formed United States of America and France. American diplomats Benjamin Franklin, Silas Deane, and Arthur Lee met with their French counterpart, Conrad Alexandre Gérard de Rayneval, to formalize the French-American Treaty, recognizing the US Declaration of Independence and establishing a trade agreement. This historic meeting cemented the alliance between the two nations and played a crucial role in the American Revolution.
However, the building’s history is not only marked by moments of triumph but also by tragedy. In 1788, François Félix de Crillon, son of Louis de Crillon, Duke of Crillon, acquired the building as his residence. However, the turbulent years of the French Revolution brought about a drastic change in the building’s fate. The government confiscated the property in 1791, and during this period, it served as a temporary home for King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. The building’s location on the Place de la Concorde, unfortunately, made it a tragic witness to the execution of the French monarchs. In 1793, both King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette were guillotined directly in front of the building, marking a defining moment in the French Revolution.
From Royal Residence to Luxury Hotel
After the Revolution, the building eventually returned to the Crillon family. They resided there for over a century before selling it in 1904. In 1906, Société du Louvre acquired the property and embarked on an ambitious project – transforming it into a luxury hotel. Architect Walter-André Destailleur oversaw a two-year renovation, which included the purchase of two neighboring buildings on the rue Boissy d’Anglas to expand the property. On March 11th, 1909, the Hôtel de Crillon opened its doors to the world, marking the beginning of its journey as a renowned luxury hotel.
A Gathering Place for the World’s Elite
Throughout the 20th century, the Hôtel de Crillon became a haven for the world’s elite. It hosted members of the American delegation to the Paris Peace Conference following World War I, including President Wilson’s key advisor, Edward House. The hotel also became a focal point for the annual Bal des débutantes, a glamorous fashion event cited by Forbes as one of the world’s top ten parties, from 1992 to 2012.
Over the years, the hotel has welcomed countless notable figures, including Theodore Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Madonna, Taylor Swift, and Roger Federer, all drawn to its luxurious ambiance and rich history.
Modernizing a Classic
In 2013, the Hôtel de Crillon embarked on a major renovation project, led by Aline Asmar d’Amman. The goal was to modernize the hotel while preserving its historic charm. The project involved an impressive collaboration of talented designers, including Tristan Auer, Chahan Minassian, Cyril Vergniol, and Karl Lagerfeld, who added his signature style to the most extravagant suites, Les Grands Apartements. This €200 million project, which took four years to complete, combined the hotel’s original architectural features, such as the 19th-century grand staircase and saloons, with contemporary style and modern amenities. The renovation project concluded in July 2017, unveiling a revitalized Hôtel de Crillon, a testament to the successful marriage of historical preservation and modern design.
A Legacy of Luxury and History
The Hôtel de Crillon’s journey, from its royal beginnings to its current status as a premier luxury hotel, is a testament to its enduring allure. The hotel has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, played host to some of the most significant events in history, and welcomed countless notable figures who have left their mark on the world. The hotel’s rich history, combined with its elegant accommodations, exceptional service, and stunning location, continues to attract discerning travelers from around the globe, ensuring its place as a Parisian icon for generations to come.
