The Trocadéro is a legendary hill in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. It’s home to the iconic Esplanade du Trocadéro, the Palais de Chaillot, and the sprawling Trocadéro Gardens. Let’s explore this remarkable Parisian landmark!
The Heart of the Trocadéro: The Esplanade
The Esplanade du Trocadéro is a vast square that separates the two wings of the Palais de Chaillot, a majestic building constructed on the site of the former Palais du Trocadéro. You can reach the top of Chaillot Hill from the Place du Trocadéro and the Place du 11 novembre, or by strolling through the Trocadéro Gardens.
A View to Remember: The Eiffel Tower from the Esplanade
Parisians and tourists alike flock to the Esplanade du Trocadéro to witness the breathtaking panorama of the Eiffel Tower. Standing proudly across the Seine, beyond the Pont d’Iéna, the Iron Lady is a majestic sight. To reach this vantage point, simply descend the hill through the charming Trocadéro Gardens and terraces, taking your time to admire the beauty of the surroundings.
A Name with a Story: The Esplanade’s History
The Esplanade du Trocadéro, constructed in the 1930s alongside the Palais de Chaillot, was originally created for the 1937 Universal Exhibition. Its name pays homage to the Battle of Trocadero, a pivotal victory for the French army over Spanish forces in Cadiz in 1828, under the command of Napoleon I.
The Trocadéro’s Transformation: From Auditorium to Esplanade
Initially, a massive auditorium with a seating capacity of 4,600 graced the space between the two wings of the palace. However, a devastating fire in the 1930s destroyed the entire building, clearing the way for the construction of the Esplanade du Trocadéro that we know today.
A Symbol of Human Rights: The “Parvis des Droits de l’Homme”
In 1985, the Esplanade du Trocadéro was renamed the “Parvis des Droits de l’Homme” (Human Rights Square), a fitting tribute to its significance. It was here that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
Art and Allegory: The Statues of the Esplanade
While taking in the view of the Eiffel Tower and the Champ-de-Mars, you’ll notice that eight statues stand proudly in front of each wing of the Palais de Chaillot. These bronze sculptures are not mere adornments but powerful allegories that add a layer of meaning to the esplanade.
A Stroll Through History: The Trocadéro Gardens
The Trocadéro Gardens, a must-see attraction in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, offer a picturesque stroll with panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower.
A Garden of Dreams and Visions: The Trocadéro Gardens’ Evolution
Before becoming the verdant haven we know today, the Chaillot Hill was the subject of numerous ambitious projects that never came to fruition. From the Villa Trocadéro envisioned by Louis XVIII, to the imperial city in honor of the King of Rome dreamed up by Napoleon, to the monumental fountain featuring a lighthouse imagined by sculptor Antoine Etex, none of these grand schemes ever materialized. Finally, architects Jules Bourdais and Gabriel Davioud created a neo-Moorish palace in a rather unexpected style.
A Garden for the World: The Trocadéro Gardens at the Universal Exhibition
To showcase the palace, the Trocadéro Gardens were meticulously laid out for the 1878 Universal Exhibition. Urban planner Alphand departed from traditional French garden designs, proposing a dramatic waterfall cascading down the gentle slope of the Chaillot Hill. Winding paths adorned with statues and fountains snaked through the gardens, and an unconventional aquarium was installed at the foot of the hill.
A Legacy of Art and Nature: The Trocadéro Gardens Today
While parts of the aquarium and gardens have survived the passage of time, the fountains and statues have been relocated. The bronze sculptures, allegories of the six continents, are now on display in front of the Musée d’Orsay, while other works are scattered throughout France.
A Parisian Oasis: The “Troca”
Today, the “Troca,” as it’s affectionately known to trendy Parisians, remains a delightful place to stroll. The Trocadéro Fountain, also known as the Warsaw Fountain, with its expansive basin and 20 water cannons, and the cascading waterfalls are major attractions. In the evenings, when the Trocadéro district and the 16th arrondissement come alive, the fountain’s light show, featuring bronze statues with animal heads, is a breathtaking spectacle.
Art and Nature Blend: A Walk Through the Trocadéro Gardens
The Trocadéro Gardens are a treasure trove of art and nature. As you wander along the garden paths, you’ll encounter numerous sculptures dating back to the Belle Époque, nestled amidst lush vegetation. After passing the children’s playground, the garden leads to the Paris Aquarium.
Your Parisian Getaway: Bleu de Grenelle Hotel
The Bleu de Grenelle boutique hotel is the perfect base for exploring Paris. It’s located within a 30-minute walk of the Place du Trocadéro, the École Militaire, the Champ-de-Mars park, the Eiffel Tower, and the Pont d’Iéna.
Luxury and Comfort at Bleu de Grenelle
The hotel’s 57 rooms offer a range of amenities and configurations to suit every need and preference. From classic rooms to suites, you can even choose a room with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Here, comfort is paramount, with all the necessary amenities for an unforgettable stay. Indulge in a bottle of champagne and relish the breathtaking vista of the Eiffel Tower and its sparkling night-time lights from the comfort of your room.
Exceptional Service at Bleu de Grenelle
To enhance your experience, we offer a range of services including breakfast, bar service, and tea time.
The Trocadéro: A Parisian Icon
With its exceptional views of the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro, with its gardens and esplanade, is a must-see destination in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. You can easily reach it from our Bleu de Grenelle Paris 15 hotel and continue your exploration of Paris’s iconic landmarks.
