The Trocadéro, a prominent landmark in Paris, is a hill nestled within the 16th arrondissement. At its summit, you’ll find the famous esplanade of the same name and the Palais de Chaillot, while the Trocadéro gardens gracefully cascade down the hill’s slopes. Join us as we delve into the captivating history and enchanting beauty of this iconic Parisian destination.
The Trocadéro Esplanade: A Grand Square in Paris
The Trocadéro esplanade is a vast square that gracefully divides the two wings of the Palais de Chaillot. This grand structure stands proudly on the site of the former Palais du Trocadéro. Reaching the top of the Chaillot hill is a delightful journey. You can take a stroll from either Place du Trocadéro, Place du 11 novembre, or even through the Trocadéro gardens.
A Breathtaking View: The Trocadéro and the Eiffel Tower
The esplanade du Trocadéro is a popular spot for both tourists and Parisians, drawn to its breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower. Across the Seine, after the Pont d’Iéna, the iconic Iron Lady stands majestically. To reach this idyllic panorama, simply amble down the hill through the Trocadero gardens and terraces, taking your time to absorb the captivating beauty of the surroundings.
The Name Behind the Esplanade: A Legacy of Victory
Why the name Trocadéro? The esplanade, built during the 1930s alongside the Palais de Chaillot, was conceived for the 1937 Universal Exhibition. Its name commemorates the Battle of Trocadéro, a pivotal event in Cadiz in 1828, where the French army triumphed over their Spanish counterparts under the leadership of Napoleon I.
A Place of Change: The Trocadéro’s Evolving Identity
Initially, a grand auditorium with 4,600 seats was situated between the two wings of the palace. However, tragedy struck in the 1930s when a fire destroyed the entire structure. From the ashes of this loss rose the esplanade, a testament to resilience and change.
The esplanade’s history is marked by significant moments. In 1985, it was renamed the “Parvis des Droits de l’Homme” (Human Rights Square), a fitting tribute to the location where the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
Statues and Allegories: An Artistic Ensemble
A stroll across the esplanade reveals an artistic panorama. As you gaze upon the Eiffel Tower and the Champ-de-Mars, you’ll notice eight statues, majestic sentinels flanking each wing of the Palais de Chaillot. These bronze sculptures represent allegories, each telling a silent story.
The Trocadéro Gardens: A Stroll Through History
The Trocadéro gardens, a must-see attraction in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, offer a captivating journey through time and beauty. They invite you to wander through verdant pathways, enjoying breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.
A History of Dreams and Transformations
The hill of Chaillot, where the Trocadéro gardens now stand, has a history rich with unfulfilled dreams. From the Villa Trocadéro, envisioned by Louis XVIII, to the imperial city dreamed up by Napoleon in honor of the King of Rome, and even a monumental fountain featuring a lighthouse imagined by sculptor Antoine Etex, countless projects never came to fruition. It was the architects Jules Bourdais and Gabriel Davioud who finally gave the hill a tangible presence, creating a neo-Moorish palace in an unexpected style.
A Flourishing Garden: The Trocadéro Gardens Unveiled
The Trocadéro gardens were meticulously designed for the 1878 Universal Exhibition to showcase the palace’s magnificence. Urban planner Alphand broke from traditional French garden designs, introducing a grand waterfall cascading down the Chaillot hill’s gentle slope. Winding pathways adorned with statues and fountains weave their way through the gardens, while an atypical aquarium adds a touch of the marine world at the bottom of the hill.
A Legacy of Art: Scattered Treasures
Today, remnants of the aquarium and gardens still delight visitors, although the fountains and statues have embarked on their own journeys. The bronze sculptures representing the six continents now stand in front of the Musée d’Orsay, while other works are scattered throughout France.
The Trocadéro Gardens Today: A Place of Tranquility and Charm
The “Troca”, as it is affectionately known to Parisian trendsetters, remains a haven of tranquility and charm. A focal point is the Trocadéro fountain, also known as the Warsaw fountain, with its expansive basin and 20 water cannons. As the day turns into night, the Trocadéro district and the 16th arrondissement come alive, and the fountain’s light show illuminates the night, featuring bronze statues with animal heads.
A Journey Through Time: Sculptures and Gardens
As you wander along the garden paths, numerous sculptures from the Belle Époque gracefully stand amidst lush greenery, whispering tales of a bygone era. After passing the children’s playground, the garden leads you to the Paris Aquarium.
Bleu de Grenelle: Your Parisian Haven
The Bleu de Grenelle boutique hotel offers an ideal escape in the heart of Paris. Within a leisurely 30-minute walk, you can reach Place du Trocadéro, the École Militaire, the Champ-de-Mars park, the Eiffel Tower, and the Pont d’Iéna.
A Stay with a View: Experience Paris in Style
The hotel’s 57 rooms provide a range of services tailored to every need and preference. From classic rooms to suites, you can choose a room boasting stunning Eiffel Tower views. Comfort reigns supreme, with amenities designed to ensure an unforgettable stay. Indulge in a bottle of champagne while savoring the breathtaking vista of the Eiffel Tower and its captivating nighttime glitter, all from the cozy confines of your room.
Exceptional Services: Your Parisian Retreat
To enhance your experience, we offer an array of services, including breakfast, bar, and tea time.
Discover the Magic of the Trocadéro
Offering an exceptional view of the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro, with its gardens and esplanade, is a must-see destination in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. Easily accessible from our Bleu de Grenelle Paris 15 hotel, the Trocadéro serves as a gateway to exploring Paris’s iconic landmarks.
