Paris is famous for its attractions, and Republic Square is one of many. It is located away from the main popular places and tourist routes, but invariably attracts tourists. Recently, the city authorities carried out its reconstruction, and now it is a pedestrian zone that adorns Paris.
Republic Square
In the 14th century, the Temple Gate was located on the Square. But gradually, the territory of the city increased, and the borders all moved away. It’s hard to believe that where the city center is now, the city walls once ended.
Prior to its restructuring, Republic Square was a quiet place that arose on the site of the ramparts and the Templar castle. A castle is a tower with thick walls. In 1307, mass arrests of templar knights began, and the castle passed into the possession of the French kings until 1808. This year Napoleon destroyed him. He began to decorate the square, built fountains. It should be noted that not only the square, but the whole of Paris has changed.
Republic Square in the 18th century became the center of theatrical life. Two theaters appear immediately next to her: Historical and Funambul. It was here that the world famous image of the sad Pierrot appeared.
In the 19th century, the Square was expanded, the houses that stood nearby, including theaters, were demolished. The area was decorated with two fountains. Currently, they have been moved to different parks.
In 1854, at the expense of part of the Boulevard du Temple, the area of the Republic was increased. Paris was rebuilt the same year by the Prefect of the Department of Seine, Baron Osman. The reconstruction of the square was more likely for military purposes than for civilian ones. In the Square, they taught to march soldiers. And instead of demolished buildings, barracks were built.
Then the boulevards that overlook the Square were rebuilt. Baron Osman suggested that in the event of hostilities direct boulevards would be convenient for firing, rather than the old winding streets that Paris is famous for.
Republic Square is surrounded by shops, cafes and a very interesting architectural ensemble, which consists of palaces.
This attraction often becomes a place of protest. Because of this, traffic jams occur, but usually drivers support protesters, who are often gathered by Republic Square.
Paris (France) has a very rich history. For a very long time the country was moving towards becoming a free republic. Therefore, Parisians are very sensitive to any attributes of their freedom, and throughout France you can find many relevant attractions. The one located in Paris is one of many.
Monument to the Republic
France survived three revolutions. At first, the monument was made of plaster, it appeared on the Square in 1880. But after three years it was cast in bronze. The symbol of the French Republic, Marianne stands on a pedestal of stone. She holds in her hand an olive branch, which symbolizes the world.
Three women sit at her feet, symbolizing the Brotherhood, Equality and Freedom - the motto of the French Revolution. The pedestal depicts important events in France with dates.
The monument was made by the Maurice brothers.
Updated Area
In 2012, the repair of the Republic Square began. This idea was brewing for a long time, it can be said, since 1854, when they began to rebuild Paris. Republic Square is located on the border of three districts, which makes it lively. The intersection of several inhabited houses, bus routes and the metro station created a huge cross. Since there were no safe crossings, accidents were not uncommon.
After the repair work, the Monument to the Republic remained in its place, and the Square itself was transformed. Now you can safely walk and relax there. There were places for rest and fountains, cafes, a playground and walking paths.
Many trees were also planted, the shadow of which covers the entire Republic Square. Paris, due to the reconstruction of the territory, has also changed, and it has a new place for relaxing walks. Terraces are built on which it is comfortable to sit, and a small pond enveloping the statue of the Republic. Now you can calmly approach the monument, but just recently it was surrounded by traffic.
Previously, there were roads that circled the Republic Square along the perimeter. Now it is a completely pedestrian zone.
Interesting Facts
In 1835, an attempt on the king was committed in the area of the Square. Unknown assembled a strange design of about 25 pistols and shot at the royal procession. But the king survived, only his retinue suffered. Unknown could not escape from the scene of the crime, and he was caught. Subsequently, the failed killer was executed.
In 1838, one of the founders of the art of photography, the artist Louis Daguerre, managed to capture a person for the first time on film camera. It is hard to see, but if you look closely at the photo, you can see a person with a raised leg.
How to get there
Near the square there is access to the Respublika metro station, five lines intersect on it. Sightseeing buses also stop here. Public transport is nearby.
A little advice: if you go by taxi, you must definitely specify which Republic Square in Paris is needed. In the suburbs there are many squares of the same name.
The French are very fond of their capital and are proud of their Republic.