Audio GuideSquare Louvois
Tall trees & grand buildings frame this 19th-century square, with benches around a classic fountain.
Park
Paris, France
Square Louvois is a quaint green retreat steeped in history, situated in the second arrondissement of Paris within the renowned Vivienne district. It derives its name from the former Hôtel de Louvois, once the property of the powerful Marquis de Louvois. Over the years, the area has experienced numerous changes. In times past, this location housed Paris's opera house at the end of the eighteenth century and into the early nineteenth century and was the site of the tragic assassination of the Duke of Berry.
During the era of Napoleon III, aspirations shifted from replacing the opera house with a chapel to converting the site into a beautifully landscaped square. The redevelopment was spearheaded by architect Gabriel Davioud and engineer Adolphe Alphand, and the square was officially opened to the public approximately one hundred and fifty years ago.
In the heart of Square Louvois is the Fontaine Louvois. This elegant fountain showcases allegorical sculptures depicting four significant French rivers: the Seine, the Garonne, the Loire, and the Saône. Each sculpture encapsulates the essence of these rivers, highlighting an essential element of France’s natural heritage.
Today, the square is also imbued with contemporary commemorative elements. Its pathways have been renamed to pay homage to local resistance heroes, and a glass memorial plaque honours the young children from the area who perished during the Nazi occupation. Encircled by towering trees and impressive buildings, and framed by Rue de Louvois, Rue de Richelieu, Rue Rameau, and Rue Lulli, this delightful spot offers visitors a harmonious blend of history and tranquillity.
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