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Place des Vosges: Paris's Oldest Planned Square

Discover Paris's oldest planned square, Place des Vosges, a harmonious blend of history, architecture, and Parisian charm in the Marais district.

The Place des Vosges, originally named Place Royale, is the oldest planned square in Paris, located in the Marais district. Built in the early 17th century by King Henry IV, it is a symmetrical square known for its elegant red brick and white stone buildings, surrounding a peaceful central garden. Today, it's a serene spot where visitors and locals relax and stroll beneath the arcades.

A brief summary to Pl. des Vosges

  • Paris, FR

Local tips

  • Visit the Maison Victor Hugo to explore the life and works of the famous author within his former residence.
  • Stroll through the arcades surrounding the square to discover art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the central garden, a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
  • Explore the nearby Hôtel de Sully and its gardens, accessible from the southwest corner of the square.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and blooming gardens.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Place des Vosges is easily accessible by the Metro. The nearest stations are Chemin Vert (Line 8), Bastille (Lines 1, 5, and 8), and Saint-Paul (Line 1). From any of these stations, it's a short walk to the square. A single Metro ticket costs €2.10.

  • Walking

    Place des Vosges is located in the Marais district, a central and walkable area of Paris. If you are already in the Marais or nearby areas like Place de la Bastille, Le Louvre or the Centre Pompidou, walking is a pleasant way to reach the square. From Place de la Bastille, walk west along Rue de la Bastille, then turn left onto Rue de Birague, which leads directly to Place des Vosges.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Paris. Simply provide 'Place des Vosges' as your destination. A short taxi ride from nearby areas like Châtelet or the Latin Quarter will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic.

  • Bus

    Several bus lines stop near Place des Vosges, including lines 29 and 96. Check the RATP (Parisian Transportation Authority) website or app for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. A single bus ticket costs €2.10.

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Discover more about Pl. des Vosges

Place des Vosges, a jewel in the Marais district, stands as the oldest planned square in Paris. Constructed between 1605 and 1612 under the reign of King Henry IV, it was initially named Place Royale to honor the king. This elegant square embodies early urban planning, serving as a prototype for residential squares across Europe. Built on the former site of the Hôtel des Tournelles, a royal residence until King Henry II's death in 1559, Catherine de Medici ordered its demolition, paving the way for the square. The Place des Vosges is a perfect square, measuring 140 meters on each side, enclosed by harmonious buildings of red brick and white stone. These buildings feature vaulted arcades at ground level, adding to the square's unique character. In the center of the square lies a peaceful garden, symmetrically arranged around an equestrian statue of Louis XIII. The original statue, erected by Cardinal Richelieu, was destroyed during the French Revolution and replaced in 1825. The garden provides a tranquil escape with lawns, fountains, and tree-shaded benches. Throughout its history, Place des Vosges has been home to aristocrats, nobles, and famous figures. Victor Hugo, author of 'Les Misérables,' lived at number 6 from 1832 to 1848, and his house is now a museum. The square was briefly renamed Place de la Fabrication-des-Armes during the Revolution and later renamed Place des Vosges in 1800 to honor the first department to pay taxes to support the Revolutionary Army. Today, Place des Vosges remains a vibrant and stylish area, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. It's a popular spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and soaking in the Parisian atmosphere. A doorway on the South-West corner of the Place des Vosges leads to the gardens of the Hôtel de Sully, where visitors can admire a Renaissance mansion.

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