Paris 2024 Games: La Concorde makes history

When modernity and history come together, the result is the Parc Urbain, a brand new competition venue created by Paris 2024 on the famous Place de la Concorde. For several days, freestyle BMX, breaking, skateboarding and 3×3 basketball will take over this iconic venue, whose rich history we will be retracing here.

‘La Concorde'. Whether you're a Parisian or not, the name rings a bell. Situated in the heart of Paris (8th arrondissement), this monument classified as historic since 1937 covers almost 8 hectares, making it the largest square in the capital. Going back in time, we can see that this area, which is very lively today at the bottom of the Champs Élysées, contrasts with the uninhabited and marshy areas of the 17th century. It was Louis XV, King of France from 1710 to 1774, who was the first to use the area as a royal square.

Strong symbolism

It wasn't until 1755 that plans were drawn up, culminating in the creation of a monumental equestrian statue of Louis XV. Glorifying his reign and royal power, it also celebrated his regained health after an illness (smallpox) that could have cost him his life. The statue, inaugurated in 1763, only remained in place for around thirty years. In 1792, this symbol of the monarchy was overthrown by the revolutionaries, who sent it to be melted down. This was a busy period for the square, which became a place for large gatherings, both festive, notably with large fireworks displays, but also more bloodthirsty (the guillotine was placed here during the revolutionary period and it was on this square that Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette were executed in 1793). The late 18th and early 19th centuries were also marked by successive name changes. From ‘Place Louis XV’, it became ‘Place de la Révolution’, then changed again to ‘Place de la Concorde’, ‘Place Louis XVI’, ‘Place de la Charte’ and finally back to ‘Place de la Concorde’ with the July monarchy (1830-1848), which wished to promote peace and national harmony after years of unrest.

The obelisk, over 3,000 years old

It is the symbol of the La Concorde: the 3,300-year-old Luxor obelisk, erected on the square in 1836. Six years earlier, it was the Viceroy of Egypt, Mehemet Ali, who presented France with the two monoliths placed at the entrance to Luxor temple. The logistical challenge of moving them to Paris was immense, so much so that only one of the two columns made the long journey. Louis-Philippe 1st decided to erect it right in the centre of the square, in line with the historic axis of Paris running from the Louvre to the Arche de la Défense, via the Tuileries, the Concorde, the Champs Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. So it was that on 25 October 1836, in the presence of 200,000 people, the obelisk rose to its full height of 22.86 metres and 227 tonnes of pink granite.

World record

The Luxor obelisk is not just a decorative landmark in Paris. Since June 1999, it has quite simply become the largest sundial in the world, thanks to its size, which makes it an ideal gnomon. Its shadow, cast between lines marked on the ground by metal strips and inlays, indicates solar time in Roman numerals. Solstices and equinoxes are also marked in the pavement.

Reflection of a nation

You may have already noticed them, or you'll have the pleasure of seeing them when you come to watch the Paris 2024 Games. La Concorde also features two monumental fountains and, above all, four pairs of allegorical statues representing eight French cities (Brest, Rouen, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nantes, Lille and Strasbourg). Erected in the mid-19th century, they are located at the corners of the square and symbolise the prosperity and influence of France.

Sport has its place here too

sport, welcoming thousands of supporters of the French football and rugby teams during their international exploits, as well as the peloton of the Tour de France. But in the summer of 2024, an Olympic page will be written in the long history of the venue. Every day, 25,000 people will be able to enjoy the Parc Urbain, a brand new competition venue bringing together BMX freestyle, breaking, skateboarding and 3×3 basketball. As well as the competition aspect, the Parc Urbain will also be a festive venue with a rich and varied programme, just like a festival. We can't wait!