History of Place de la République

As you stroll around Place de la République, have you ever wondered about the history of this large Parisian square and, above all, its impressive monument in the center? 

Originally, the Place de la République was just a small Parisian square. But in the 19th century, it became an important Parisian transport hub(which is still the case today!) and took the name Place du Château d'Eau because of the Fontaine du Château d'Eau fountain installed on the square in 1811. This fountain, considered too small, was later moved to the La Villette slaughterhouse market to serve as a drinking trough for livestock. 

Shortly afterwards, in 1854, the Place du Château d'Eau was redesigned by Baron Haussmann as part of his grand plan to redevelop Paris during the Second Empire. Haussmann created a large rectangular square, demolishing several theaters on the Boulevard du Temple to make way for it. Architect Gabriel Davioud created a new fountain decorated with eight bronze lions, which was also moved to Place Félix Eboué in the 12th arrondissement. 

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In 1879, the square was officially named Place de la République in homage to the values of the Republic. To mark the occasion, an architectural competition was organized to design a monument on the square that would reflect the grandeur of the Republic. The competition was won by the Morice brothers, who created the Monument de la République, a 25-meter-high bronze structure. It was inaugurated on July 14, 1883, France's national holiday! 

During the Occupation of Paris, the Germans housed their troops in the barracks located on Place de la République. It was also the last German stronghold to be recaptured by the Resistance and French soldiers on August 25, 1944! 

In 2013, Place de la République underwent a complete transformation. The Paris City Council decided to give priority to pedestrians, skateboarders, and cyclists by reducing the space allocated to cars. It is now the perfect place for drinks with friends, events, and outdoor concerts. A favorite spot for families and night owls, Place de la République has plenty to offer for your summer evenings.