Place des Vosges, a magnificent square in the heart of Paris, invites you on a journey through time. This iconic landmark, a testament to French grandeur, boasts a rich history and architectural splendor. Let’s delve into its captivating past and discover what treasures await within its charming arcades.
The Square, the Statue, the Fountains
Place des Vosges is more than just a beautiful square; it’s a living museum, each building whispering tales of kings, queens, and renowned figures.
The King’s Pavilion (House Number 1), a majestic structure, stands proudly on the southern edge of the square. Constructed in 1605-08, its imposing height underscores its significance as a symbol of royal power. Although no monarch ever resided here, its presence adds a touch of regal grandeur to the square.
The Hôtel Coulanges (House Number 1bis), a neighboring structure, once housed nobles close to the royal court. Later, notable figures such as painter Georges Dufrénoy and dancer Isadora Duncan graced its halls. Today, it stands as a testament to time, undergoing extensive restoration after years of neglect.
The Hôtel de Sully (House Number 7), built between 1624-30, now serves as the headquarters for the Centre des Monuments Nationaux, the organization responsible for preserving France’s national heritage sites. Its meticulous restoration in 1973 highlights its architectural and historical value, drawing visitors to its charming courtyard and captivating exterior.
The Hôtel de Chaulnes (House Number 9), originally owned by a royal advisor, witnessed a fleeting visit from King Louis XIII during the square’s official inauguration in 1612. Today, the first floor houses the French Academy of Architecture, a fitting tribute to the architectural prowess of the square.
The Hôtel Pierrard (House Number 11) proudly displays one of the oldest graffiti in Paris, “NICOLAS 1764”, on its facade. This inscription, a silent witness to time, adds a touch of intrigue to the building’s history.
The Hôtel de Montbrun (House Number 19), transformed into a hotel in 2019, once served as a home for a healthcare association. A plaque commemorating its past stands as a reminder of its charitable endeavors.
The Hôtel du Cardinal de Richelieu (House Number 21), named after the renowned figure who commissioned the equestrian statue in 1634, is believed to have hosted members of his family, although there’s no evidence of the cardinal himself residing here.
The Hôtel de Rohan-Guémené (House Number 6 & 6bis), owned by one of the most influential families of the French Ancién Régime, the Rohans, for a century, stands as a testament to their past grandeur. In 1832, the esteemed writer Victor Hugo took up residence on the second floor, leaving an indelible mark on the building. Today, it houses the Maison Victor Hugo, a museum dedicated to his life and work.
The Hôtel de Ribault (House Number 14), seized during the French Revolution, served as the town hall for the ancient 8th arrondissement. After extensive renovations, it transformed into a synagogue in 1963, founded by Charles Liché, fostering the Jewish community in the area.
The Queen’s Pavilion (House Number 28), a luxurious 5-star hotel, faces the King’s Pavilion, with the equestrian statue turned towards it. Built in 1605-08, this second-highest mansion in Place des Vosges connects the square to Rue de Béarn. A medallion on the central arcade bears the sun, a symbol of the Medici family, to which Marie, the second wife of King Henry IV, belonged. Although the Queen never lived here, the pavilion briefly hosted Anne of Austria, the wife of King Louis XIII.
Place des Vosges offers a captivating glimpse into French history and architectural beauty. It’s a place where you can wander through time, imagining the lives of the people who graced its courtyards and walked beneath its arcades.
