A Bustling Parisian Crossroads
The Place des Ternes, at the convergence of some of the most iconic Parisian streets like Avenue de Wagram, Boulevard de Courcelles, and Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré, serves as a central hub in the 8th and 17th arrondissements.
Created in 1893, this square has witnessed Paris’s evolution from a historic village setting to a dynamic urban landscape. Today, the Place des Ternes still pulses with life, providing visitors a blend of traditional charm and modern Parisian energy.
A Name Rooted in Local Heritage
The square’s name stems from the adjacent Avenue des Ternes, which historically crossed the Hamlet of Ternes, a small settlement on the outskirts of old Paris. This name stands as a tribute to the area’s deep-rooted local history, highlighting the square’s enduring connection to its past.
The octroi barrier of Roule once stood here, marking the city’s boundary and serving as a customs point where merchants paid duties on goods entering Paris.
Historical Echoes of Napoleon I
One of the square’s significant historical moments occurred on June 21, 1815, when Emperor Napoleon I passed through the octroi barrier on his way back from the catastrophic defeat at Waterloo.
This somber journey ended at the Élysée Palace, where he would abdicate just a day later. This episode marks the Place des Ternes as an often-overlooked site of Napoleonic history.
Architectural Gems and Cultural Touchstones
Among the square’s architectural highlights is Cité Mondaine, an elegant residential complex at numbers 7-9 designed by Jean Boussard in 1882. Known for its sophisticated layout centered around a circular garden courtyard, this complex has remained largely unaltered since its inception, preserving the luxurious atmosphere of 19th-century Paris.
The area also boasts an array of bustling cafes, boutique stores, and the popular Marché du Poncelet, a short walk away, where locals gather to shop for fresh produce, gourmet treats, and artisanal goods.
A Square Connected to the City’s Heartbeat
Today, the Place des Ternes is a popular meeting spot and a lively center surrounded by attractions like Parc Monceau. With its prime location and easy access to many of Paris’s most iconic sites, this square is both a charming glimpse into the city’s history and a dynamic place that locals and tourists alike enjoy.