Place Vendôme

Place Vendôme, commissioned by Louis XIV, lies not far from the Tuileries Gardens. This grand square was created to immortalize Louis XIV, much like his grandfather Henry IV, known as the ‘Great Builder’, who helped shape parts of Paris including Europe’s first public square, Place des Vosges.

Louis XIV initially named it Place de Louis le Grand. The original idea was to celebrate the victories of Louis XIV’s armies. However, as his military campaigns failed to leave a lasting legacy, the square became more of a tribute to the king himself. The original equestrian statue of Louis XIV was destroyed during the French Revolution. It was later replaced by a statue of Napoleon, made from melted weapons and remnants of the Battle of Austerlitz.

That statue was also toppled during the Paris Commune, but later restored after the failed uprising. Today, Place Vendôme is a symbol of luxury and prestige. The square hosts famous jewellers, fashion houses, and the world-renowned Ritz Hotel. The statue of Napoleon still stands, a silent witness to France’s turbulent history.