Situated in the heart of Paris’s 16th arrondissement, the Place du Trocadero offers a breathtaking view of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. This historic site is a must-see for tourists and Parisians alike! But do you know all its secrets? Here are five unusual things you need to know about this historic landmark!
There’s supposedly a tunnel under the Trocadero
It may sound like the beginning of a spy movie, but there’s actually a secret tunnel under the Trocadéro. The Victor tunnel links the Trocadéro esplanade to the Palais de Chaillot. The latter served as a hiding place and headquarters for all French resistance fighters during the Second World War.
Before the Palais de Chaillot, there was another Palais…
It was called the Palais du Trocadéro (quite simply). Erected during the 1878 Universal Exhibition, this superb palace featured a grandiose auditorium, two museums and a magnificent library. Unfortunately, due to its dilapidated condition, it was demolished almost 60 years later. The Palais de Chaillot, built on the remains of the Palais du Trocadéro, has preserved parts of its former life.
The Warsaw Fountain can throw a jet of water 50 m high
Comprising several basins, this spectacular fountain is certainly one of the best-known in Paris. But what you may not have known is that the jets can reach heights of up to 50 metres! Incredible, isn’t it?
The Palais de Chaillot almost went up in flames…
In 1997, the Palais caught fire! And sadly, around 30% of the works it contained were lost or damaged.
A mini Eiffel Tower has been erected a stone’s throw from the Palais.
During the 1878 Universal Exhibition, a mini Eiffel Tower was erected just a stone’s throw from the Palais de Chaillot. It was there to direct visitors. Unfortunately, it was dismantled once the event was over…