Place du Châtelet
4.2
(1.4k)Place du Châtelet is a busy public square on the right bank of the Seine, marking the border between the 1st and 4th arrondissements. It's known for its central Fontaine du Palmier, built to celebrate French military victories, and is surrounded by landmarks like the Théâtre du Châtelet and the Théâtre de la Ville. The square offers a convenient transport hub and is a good spot for a walk.
Address
12715 Rue St Denis, 75001 Paris, France
Opening Hours
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Thu)
Phone
+33 1 44 50 75 01
Worth it?
Worth it if you're looking for a lively, central Parisian square with historical significance and good transport links
Skip if you prefer quiet, secluded spots away from traffic
Location
12715 Rue St Denis, 75001 Paris, France
Nearby places
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Highlights
The Fontaine du Palmier features a column shaped like a palm tree trunk, topped with a gilded statue of Victory holding laurel wreaths.
Four allegorical figures representing Prudence, Temperance, Justice, and Strength ring the base of the fountain.
Bronze gilt bands on the column pay tribute to French victories in battles like the Siege of Danzig and the Battle of Ulm.
Sphinxes at the fountain's base, designed in 1858, commemorate Napoleon's victory in Egypt.
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Who it's for
This spot is for anyone interested in Parisian history and architecture, especially those who appreciate monumental fountains and want a central location for exploring. It's also good for families, as it's wheelchair accessible and has nearby cafes.
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Reviews
4.2
Very good
5 ReviewsVisitors generally find Place du Châtelet to be an interesting and elegant square, with the Fontaine du Palmier being a particular highlight. It's a busy area with good transport connections and nearby cafes, making it a convenient stop for a rest or a walk.
Fun facts
The square is named after the Grand Châtelet, a stronghold that guarded the northern end of the Pont au Change and housed prisons until its demolition between 1802 and 1810.
The Fontaine du Palmier was designed in 1806 by architect and engineer François-Jean Bralle.
The two identical-looking theatres facing the square, the Théâtre du Châtelet and the Théâtre de la Ville, were completed between 1860 and 1862 as part of Baron Haussmann's reconfiguration of Paris.
