Located in the heart of the Marais district, Place des Vosges is one of Paris' most emblematic squares. Inaugurated in 1612 as Place Royale, it is considered the oldest monumental square in the capital. Accessible via the Saint-Paul or Chemin Vert metro stations, it extends over a perfect 140-meter square, surrounded by 36 pavilions with red brick facades and blue slate roofs. Today, the Place des Vosges is a popular spot for Parisians and tourists alike, offering a peaceful setting in which to relax, stroll under the arcades or enjoy the art galleries, boutiques and cafés that surround it.
Thehistory of the Place des Vosges dates back to the early XVIIᵉ century, when King Henri IV decided to transform the former site of the Hôtel des Tournelles into a majestic square. Work began in 1605 and was completed in 1612, the year of its inauguration to mark the engagement of Louis XIII and Anne of Austria. Originally named Place Royale, it soon became a popular place of residence for the French nobility. After the French Revolution, in 1800, it was renamedPlace des Vosges in honor of the Vosges department, the first to pay taxes during the Revolution. Over the centuries, the square has retained its harmonious architecture and timeless charm.
Among the more unusual anecdotes, did you know that the Place des Vosges is home to the oldest graffiti in Paris? In 1764, the writer Restif de la Bretonne engraved his name on one of the pillars of the arcades, leaving a trace of his passage. What's more, old railroad tracks can still be seen beneath the arcades, remnants of a track once used to transport goods. The square has also been the scene of many historic events, and has welcomed illustrious residents such as Victor Hugo, who lived at n°6 from 1832 to 1848, now transformed into a museum dedicated to the writer.
Victor Hugo's house in Paris, an artistic plunge into the world of the famous author
The Maison de Victor Hugo is tucked away on the Place des Vosges in the heart of Paris. This museum dedicated to France's most famous author lets us discover the apartment where the artist and his family lived. [Read more]
Today, the Place des Vosges is a popular place to relax and enjoy life. Its central garden, Square Louis XIII, features fountains and flowerbeds, providing a verdant setting for picnics or reading. The arcades are alternately home to art galleries and cafés, where you can enjoy a hot drink while watching passers-by come and go. The atmosphere is both peaceful and convivial, and attracts crowds when the sun is out, making the Place des Vosges a must-see in the Marais.
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Location
Place des Vosges
Place des Vosges
75004 Paris 4
Victor Hugo's house in Paris, an artistic plunge into the world of the famous author
