West Paris

The neighborhoods of West Paris, namely the area surrounding The Champs-Elysees and Trocadero, are a cultural mecca in the city of Paris. With a large number of museums in the area, as well as the tremendous social significance of shops and cafes of The Champs-Elysees, West Paris provides in-depth insight into Parisian culture.

History of West Paris

The history of Trocadero dates back to the 1860s when the hill of Chaillot was arranged for the 1867 World's Fair. Later, in preparation for the 1878 World's Fair, the original Palais du Trocadero was built as a meeting location for the popular event. With the passage of time, the Palais was demolished, and replaced with the Palais du Chaillot for the 1937 Exposition Internationale. The Palais, located on the banks of the Seine River, right across from the Eiffel Tower, is a tremendously important, and prominent landmark in this section of West Paris.

The history of one of the most internationally famous Parisian landmarks, The Champs-Elysees dates back to 1724 when maps of Paris begin to show the Grande Avenue des Champs-Elysees moving west from the Place de la Concorde. Records show that by the late eighteenth century, The Champs-Elysees had developed the reputation as the fashionable avenue it is known as today. In 1828, fountains, footpaths and gas-lighting were added when the avenue became property of the city of Paris.

With its wide and open street, The Champs-Elysees has historically been a popular location for military parades in the city of Paris. During World War II, German forces marched down The Champs-Elysees to celebrate the fall of the city. At the end of the war, the street was once again home to a military parade as the American troops celebrated the liberation of Paris. Every year, on Bastille Day The Champs-Elysees serves as the site for the city's annual parade, which holds the distinction of being the largest military parade in Europe.

West Paris Culture

The neighborhoods which make up West Paris are prominent cultural havens within the City of Light. The Champs-Elysees, known as a prime location for shopping, dining, and entertainment, plays a vital role within the social culture of Paris. As a notable location for parades, The Champs-Elysees becomes an important social landmark in Paris, and its significance in Parisian culture becomes increasingly apparent when examining the shopping and dining in the area. The Champs-Elysees, the most well known of Paris' grand avenues gives tremendous insight into the importance of Parisian culture.

The Palais du Chaillot is the home to a number of prominent Parisian museums. The Naval Museum and the Ethnology Museum are both housed in the southern building of the Palais; while the eastern building is home to the Cite de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine. Each of these museums, as well as the Palais du Chaillot, play an important cultural role in the preservation of Parisian history.

Attractions in West Paris 

Located at the foot of the Palais du Chaillot and on the banks of the Seine River, the Jardin du Trocadero is a large area of open space within the city. The garden dates back to 1878 and the construction of the original Palais du Trocadero. The Gardens of Trocadero are a great spot for those with an interest in art. There are dozens of fascinating sculptures lining the grounds, as well as the famous Fountains of Varsovie. Easily accessible from the Trocadero metro station, the gardens are a great family destination with a carousel, playgrounds, swings, and sandboxes. There are also a number of concession stands selling kid friendly food like ice-cream, sandwiches, and soda.

The Champs-Elysees terminates in West Paris at the foot of the famous Arc de Triomphe. Visitors looking for a relaxing afternoon of shopping and fine-dining can find endless entertainment on the avenue. The tree lined streets are filled with shops and boutiques catering to a number of interests and price-ranges. Legendary fashion designers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci both operate boutiques along the avenue, as well as more affordable fashion retailers like H&M, which also ownws a shop along The Champs-Elysees. Those visiting West Paris can access The Champs-Elysees through the Charles de Gaulle metro station.

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