Dominating the Place de la Bastille and instantly recognisable with the Génie de la Liberté shining at its summit, the July Column is the focal point of this large square. Steeped in history and symbolic in various ways, it opens its doors to the public on October 21st. Immerse yourself in revolutionary Paris during your next stay at the Hôtel Albe Bastille.
At the heart of the turbulent history of Paris
Since the French Revolution, the Place de la Bastille has symbolised the upheavals that took place in Paris and the fight for freedom. From 1792, the square became a place in which to commemorate revolutionary events and remained so under the First Empire. A monumental fountain was initially built there, followed by the immense plaster elephant described by Victor Hugo in his novel, Les Misérables. In the mid-19th century, this was replaced by the July Column, a monument celebrating the commitment of the Parisian revolutionaries during the Revolution of 1830. From the Revolution of 1848 to the Commune, it has remained over the decades a symbol of freedom and the struggle of people.
An exciting visit
Rich in symbols, the July Column presents a wealth of images to decipher. From its necropolis housing the remains of revolutionaries to its bronze shaft decorated with a thousand allegories of freedom, including its Génie de la liberté, a colossal gilded figure brandishing broken chains and the torch of civilisation some fifty metres above the square, every detail is a lesson in Parisian history. A guided tour will allow you to understand all these elements and relive the turbulent and gripping story of 19th century Paris.
Less than ten minutes on foot from the Hôtel Albe Bastille, discover revolutionary Paris and a thrilling period of French history. A true architectural masterpiece, the July Column has become a precious symbol of Paris.
*****
Photo : beatrix kido
Hotel Albe Bastille, a 3-star hotel in the heart of Bastille district