Place Vendôme is associated with so many historical events and famous names that it would be an unforgivable mistake not to see it. The title of one of the “five royal squares” it bears in old memory – originally the architectural ensemble was conceived as a testament to the greatness of Louis XIV. The center of the square, the construction of which was long and difficult, was finally decorated with an equestrian statue of the Sun King. The whirlwind of the French Revolution almost completely destroyed the statue, leaving only a small fragment, which is now in the Louvre. Many trials fell to the share of another monument that replaced the image of the king – Vendome Column. It was erected in honor of Napoleon’s victories over the united armies of Europe, which was clearly evidenced by bronze bas-reliefs cast from captured enemy guns. During the Bourbon Restoration, the figure of Napoleon was melted down and replaced by a monument to Henry IV. Later, the “status quo” was restored, and Napoleon returned to the pedestal in a new guise – but only to be overthrown during the Paris Commune. However, the emperor was soon returned to his place, and today he looks down on the square from a height of 44 meters. One of the main attractions of the square is the luxurious Ritz Hotel, known primarily for its famous guests. Charlie Chaplin, Ernest Hemingway, Elton John and Coco Chanel stayed here for over 30 years. The tragedy that happened to Princess Diana added to the hotel’s sad fame – it was here that she left in her Mercedes, never to return. The octagonal shape of the square gives rise to an association with a skillfully cut gemstone: just like a rare emerald, it is framed in an expensive setting of fashionable restaurants and brand-name jewelry boutiques. There are endless stories to tell about the history of the houses surrounding the square, which you can see for yourself with a Russian-speaking private guide.
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