The Trocadéro: A Majestic Hilltop Haven
Imagine a hilltop in the heart of Paris, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. This is the Trocadéro, a captivating landmark in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. At its summit, you’ll find the famous Esplanade du Trocadéro and the majestic Palais de Chaillot. The Trocadéro gardens gracefully cascade down the hill, adding a touch of tranquility to this bustling Parisian scene.
Uncovering the Esplanade du Trocadéro
The Esplanade du Trocadéro, a vast square, separates the two wings of the Palais de Chaillot, a stunning building constructed in place of the original Palais du Trocadéro. You can access this picturesque spot from Place du Trocadéro, Place du 11 novembre, or through the enchanting Trocadéro gardens.
The esplanade is a popular gathering place for tourists and Parisians alike, drawn by its captivating panorama of the Eiffel Tower. Standing across the Seine River, after the Pont d’Iéna, the Iron Lady dominates the skyline, an unforgettable sight. A leisurely stroll down the hill, through the Trocadéro gardens and terraces, allows you to savor the beauty of the surroundings.
The History Behind the Name
The Esplanade du Trocadéro, built in the 1930s alongside the Palais de Chaillot, was designed for the 1937 Universal Exhibition. Its name, however, harkens back to a pivotal event in French history: the Battle of Trocadero, which took place in Cadiz in 1828 under the command of Napoleon I. This battle, a resounding victory for the French army over Spanish forces, symbolizes the esplanade’s historical significance.
A Square Transformed: From Auditorium to Human Rights Square
The Esplanade du Trocadéro underwent a fascinating transformation. Initially, a grand auditorium with 4,600 seats stood between the two wings of the palace. Tragically, a fire in the 1930s destroyed the entire building, paving the way for the creation of the esplanade.
In 1985, the esplanade was given a new name: the Parvis des Droits de l’Homme (Human Rights Square). This renaming commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, an event that took place on this very spot.
A Symphony of Statues and Sculptures
The Esplanade du Trocadéro is a haven for art enthusiasts. As you stroll across the esplanade, taking in the majestic views of the Eiffel Tower and the Champ-de-Mars, you’ll notice eight bronze statues flanking each wing of the Palais de Chaillot. These sculptures, meticulously crafted allegories, add a touch of artistry to this already captivating setting.
The Alluring Trocadéro Gardens: A Parisian Oasis
The Trocadéro Gardens, a must-see attraction in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, offer a delightful escape. Here, you can indulge in a leisurely stroll while enjoying breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.
From Dreamy Projects to a Neo-Moorish Palace
The Chaillot hill, the site of the Trocadéro Gardens, has a rich history. Numerous grand projects were envisioned for this hill, but none came to fruition, from Louis XVIII’s Villa Trocadéro to Napoleon’s imperial city honoring the King of Rome, and even a monumental fountain with a lighthouse imagined by sculptor Antoine Etex.
Fate had a different plan, and architects Jules Bourdais and Gabriel Davioud ultimately created a neo-Moorish palace – a surprising choice given the existing ideas.
A Garden Unveiled: A Waterfall and a World of Wonder
To highlight the palace’s beauty, the Trocadéro gardens were designed for the 1878 Universal Exhibition. Urban planner Alphand dared to break from traditional French garden designs, creating an immense waterfall cascading down the gentle slope of the Chaillot hill. Winding paths, adorned with statues and fountains, meander throughout the gardens, while an atypical aquarium sits at the bottom of the hill, adding a touch of aquatic charm to the landscape.
Sculptures and Fountains: Echoes of a Bygone Era
While remnants of the aquarium and gardens remain, the fountains and statues have been relocated over time. The bronze sculptures, representing the six continents, now stand proudly in front of the Musée d’Orsay. Other works are scattered throughout France, preserving a piece of the Trocadéro’s artistic legacy.
The Troca’s Enduring Charm
The Trocadéro, affectionately nicknamed the “Troca” by trendy young Parisians, remains a popular spot for a leisurely stroll. The Trocadéro fountain, also known as the Warsaw fountain, with its large basin and 20 water cannons, is a captivating spectacle. Water cascades into the basin, creating a mesmerizing display. In the evenings, the Trocadéro district and the 16th arrondissement come alive, and the fountain’s light show, featuring bronze statues with animal heads, is a breathtaking sight to behold.
A Walk Through Time: Belle Époque Sculptures and a Parisian Aquarium
As you explore the garden paths, numerous sculptures dating back to the Belle Époque are still on display, surrounded by lush vegetation. Beyond the children’s playground, the garden leads to the Paris Aquarium, offering a glimpse into the underwater world.
Bleu de Grenelle: Your Parisian Retreat with a View
For a truly unforgettable stay in the heart of Paris, the Bleu de Grenelle boutique hotel is the perfect choice. Within a 30-minute walk, you can reach the Place du Trocadéro, the École Militaire, the Champ-de-Mars park, the Eiffel Tower, and the Pont d’Iéna, putting you at the center of Parisian attractions.
Comfort and Convenience: Your Parisian Sanctuary
The hotel’s 57 rooms offer a range of amenities to suit every need and preference. From classic rooms to luxurious suites, you can even choose a room with a captivating view of the Eiffel Tower. Comfort reigns supreme at the Bleu de Grenelle, with all the necessary amenities for an unforgettable stay. Imagine enjoying a bottle of champagne while marveling at the Eiffel Tower’s glittering lights, curled up in the cozy comfort of your room.
A Parisian Experience: From Breakfast to Tea Time
To enhance your Parisian experience, the Bleu de Grenelle offers a variety of services, including breakfast, bar service, and tea time, ensuring your every need is met.
The Trocadéro: A Parisian Icon
The Trocadéro, with its captivating gardens and esplanade, offers an exceptional view of the Eiffel Tower and is a must-see destination in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. Easily accessible from the Bleu de Grenelle Paris 15 hotel, the Trocadéro is a gateway to exploring Paris’s iconic landmarks.
