Paris, France
Welcome to Champ de Mars in Paris. This expansive public park, situated in the seventh arrondissement, boasts a rich history, initially serving as a military training ground. Its name, Field of Mars, honours the ancient Roman god of war, and it later became a prominent site for military drills. In Paris, the area began as a market garden and transformed in the mid-eighteenth century with the establishment of the École Militaire, signifying its military heritage. Throughout the years, this historic park has been the backdrop for revolutionary festivities and key political events that have shaped French history. It has also been the setting for several world exhibitions, introducing fresh concepts and cultural advancements, and more recently, it has served as a venue for art exhibitions, film screenings, and Olympic sports like beach volleyball.
Similar public spaces can be found in cities such as Montreal, Lille, Athens, and Montpellier, where history and contemporary life converge, inviting visitors to explore local culture and innovation.
Listen to this and other guides in app
