An iconic public square in Paris's 8th arrondissement, Place de la Concorde spans approximately 7.6 ha, making it the city's largest . Designed by Ange‑Jacques Gabriel from 1755 to 1772 at Louis XV’s request, it was initially named Place Louis‑XV. Its charm stems from its octagonal layout, majestic Mers and Fleuves fountains, and allegorical statues of eight French cities.

Rich in history, the square became the gloomy stage of the Terror in 1792: renamed Place de la Révolution, the guillotine claimed over 1,100 to 2,000 lives, including Louis XVI, Marie‑Antoinette, Robespierre, Danton, and Lavoisier. In 1795, the Directory restored its name to “Concorde,” symbolizing reconciliation after the revolution's excesses .

The 19th century brought aesthetic enhancements, notably the 1836 installation of the Luxor Obelisk – an Egyptian gift weighing 222 tons and standing 23 m tall – a remarkable feat of engineering . Architect Hittorff also added two gilded cast‑iron monumental fountains and eight rostral statues.

Over the centuries, the square has remained central to Parisian life: during the 1871 Commune it was a battleground, and in 1944, the French flag was raised here during Liberation . Classified as a historic monument since 1937 and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is currently undergoing a large renovation project aiming to add greenery, rebalance pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicular access, and strengthen links to the Seine — plans approved in 2024 with works due to start in 2026.

Today, Place de la Concorde offers a vibrant, touristic atmosphere: walkers, families, and visitors gather around the obelisk. Although predominantly paved, its open layout and views of the Champs‑Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the Tuileries Gardens create unparalleled vistas. It’s also a favored spot for picnics, sightseeing, or a relaxing interlude before exploring Musée d’Orsay, the Seine embankments, or the Champs‑Élysées gardens .

This square appeals to everyone: history buffs, architecture lovers, tourists, families, and photographers seeking iconic shots. Among the anecdotes, the dramatic 1770 festival accident — a misplaced firework killed over 130 people — remains a seldom‑told but tragic chapter .