NATION SQUARE
Square featuring a monument on its central median, a work by Claude-Nicolas Ledoux, dating from 1787 in Paris
A huge circular crossroads (250 meters in diameter), the Place de la Nation features a monument on its central median. Installed here in 1899, "Le Triomphe de la République" (The Triumph of the Republic) is a bronze by Jules Dalou showing the Republic hoisted on a chariot drawn by lions, who are cheered on by Liberté, Travail, etc. To the east of the square are two columns, at the foot of which are two former octroi pavilions that were part of the fermiers généraux' wall. This complex was designed by Claude-Nicolas Ledoux in 1787. At the time, the square was known as Place du Trône. This name dated back to 1660. On July 26 of that year, a ceremonial throne was installed here to welcome Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Austria, who had just married in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. During the French Revolution, the area was renamed Place du Trône-Renversé, and served as a place of execution during the Terror. Renamed Place de la Nation on July 14, 1880, the site is now the end (or starting) point for many union parades. Two years ago, like many other squares in Paris (such as the Place de la République and the Place de Bastille, for example), the Place de la Nation underwent a thorough requalification: some of the streets that had previously acted as counter-alleys were closed to traffic, and the public space dedicated to cars was drastically reduced in favor of lawns, play areas and strolling spaces. Local residents love it.
Did you know? This review was written by our professional authors.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on NATION SQUARE
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
un endroit un peu excentré de Paris mais qui vaut le détour dans le cadre d'une balade 11eme/20eme autour de Charonne et du père Lachaise
le samedi matin c'est très convivial avec le marché