Paris is known for its sights, and Place de la République is one of many. It is located away from the main popular places and tourist routes, but it always 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 Gates were 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.
Before its restructuring, Republic Square was a quiet place that arose on the site of the fortress wall and the Templar castle. The castle is a tower with thick walls. In 1307, general arrests of the knights of the templars began, and the castle passed into the possession of the French kings until 1808. This year it was destroyed by Napoleon. He also began to decorate the square, built fountains. It should be noted that not only the area has changed, but the whole of Paris.
Republic Square in the 18th century became the center of theater life. Two theaters appear next to it at once: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 square was decorated with two fountains. They have now been moved to different parks.
In 1854, at the expense of part of the Boulevard du Temple, the Republic Square was increased. Paris was rebuilt in the same year by Baron Haussmann, prefect of the Seine department. The redevelopment of the square was more for military purposes than for civilian ones. Soldiers were taught to march on the Square. And instead of the demolished buildings, barracks were built.
Then the boulevards that overlook the Square were rebuilt. Baron Haussmann assumed that in the event of hostilities, straight boulevards would be convenient for shooting, and not the old winding streets for which Paris is known.
Republic Square is surrounded by shops, cafes and a very interesting architectural ensemble, which consists of palaces.
This attraction often becomes the scene of protests. Because of this, traffic jams occur, but usually drivers support the 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 has experienced three revolutions. At first, the monument was made of plaster; it appeared on the Square in 1880. But three years later it was cast in bronze. The symbol of the French Republic, Marianne, stands on a stone pedestal. She holds an olive branch in her hand, which symbolizes peace.
At her feet sit three women, symbolizing Fraternity, Equality and Liberty - the motto of the French Revolution. The pedestal depicts important events in France with dates.
The monument was made by the Maurice brothers.
Renewed Square
In 2012, the renovation of Republic Square began. This idea has been brewing for a long time, one might say, 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 traffic. 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 are places for recreation and fountains, cafes, a playground and footpaths.
We also planted a lot of trees, 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 quiet walks. Terraces were built to comfortably sit on, and a small pool was built around the statue of the Republic. Now you can go to the monumentcalmly approach, and after all, quite recently he was surrounded by traffic.
Earlier, there were roads that went around the Republic Square along the perimeter. It is now a completely pedestrian zone.
Interesting facts
In 1835, an attempt was made on the king's life near the Square. An unknown person assembled a strange design of about 25 pistols and fired at the royal procession. But the king remained alive, only his retinue suffered. The unknown could not escape from the scene of the crime, and he was caught. Subsequently, the failed assassin was executed.
In 1838, one of the founders of the art of photography, the artist Louis Daguerre, for the first time managed to capture a person on camera film. It is hard to see, but if you look closely at the photo, you can see a man with his leg raised.
How to get there
Near the square there is an exit to the Respublika metro station, where five lines intersect. Tour buses also stop here. There are public transport stops nearby.
A little tip: if you go by taxi, you must definitely specify which Place de la République in Paris is needed. There are many squares of the same name in the suburbs.
The French love their capital very much and are proud of their Republic.
