Place des Vosges is the oldest planned square in Paris, located in the heart of the Marais district. It was commissioned by King Henry IV and inaugurated in 1612 to celebrate the marriage of Louis XIII and Anne of Austria. Designed in perfect symmetry, the square features 36 identical red-brick and stone pavilions with steep slate roofs surrounding a central garden. Originally called Place Royale, it was renamed Place des Vosges during the French Revolution in honor of the Vosges department, the first to pay taxes to support the revolutionary government. The square quickly became a fashionable address for aristocrats and writers, including Victor Hugo, whose former residence is now a museum open to the public. Today, Place des Vosges remains one of the most elegant and tranquil spots in Paris, offering shaded arcades lined with galleries, cafés, and boutiques. The central park is a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike, combining historical charm with a refined atmosphere that reflects the grace of old Paris.
Paris FrancePlace des Vosges is located in the Marais district, straddling the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris. Nestled between Rue de Birague and Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, it sits just a short walk from the Seine and is easily accessible from the Saint-Paul and Chemin Vert metro stations. The square is surrounded by elegant arcades housing art galleries, cafés, and boutiques, and the area retains much of its historic charm. Just to the west lies the Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, while the nearby Maison de Victor Hugo, located on the square itself, offers insight into the famous writer’s life and work. The vibrant Rue des Rosiers, the heart of the Jewish quarter, is also within walking distance and known for its bakeries, delis, and cultural landmarks. To the south, you can reach the Seine River in minutes, and the nearby Place de la Bastille adds a contrasting revolutionary energy. Quiet yet central, Place des Vosges is a serene and culturally rich part of the historic Right Bank.