The Paris Olympics 2024 promise to be an unforgettable spectacle, highlighting the city’s most iconic locations. From the Eiffel Tower to the Grand Palais, the venues selected for the Games will showcase the grandeur and history of Paris. Here’s a look at five venues that will play a central role in the 17-day event starting July 26:
1. Eiffel Tower: Beach Volleyball’s Grand Stage
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, will host beach volleyball in a temporary venue near its base. The adjacent Champs de Mars will see judo and wrestling competitions.
When it was first introduced by Gustave Eiffel in 1889 for the World Fair, the Eiffel Tower faced criticism from Parisians. Today, it stands as an iconic structure, drawing seven million visitors annually and serving as a crucial telecoms hub. Athletes at the Paris Games will take home medals containing a piece of the tower’s original iron, adding a unique touch to their victory.
2. Grand Palais: The Artistic Arena
Fencing and taekwondo will be held in the Grand Palais, an architectural marvel built for the 1900 World Fair. This venue is celebrated for its vast glass-domed roof, the largest in Europe, which shelters an extensive exhibition space.
The Grand Palais has served many purposes over the years, including as a military hospital during World War I. In recent times, it has hosted grand art installations and the world’s largest indoor ice rink. Its historical and contemporary significance makes it an ideal Olympic venue.
3. Place de la Concorde: Historic Square Turned Sports Hub
Place de la Concorde, known for its historical significance, will host urban sports like skateboarding, 3×3 basketball, BMX freestyle, and breakdancing, which debuts at the Olympics.
This square, notorious for the execution of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette during the French Revolution, is now a bustling part of Paris, marked by a large Egyptian obelisk. The juxtaposition of its bloody history with modern sports will create a fascinating dynamic for the Games.
4. Palace of Versailles: Equestrian Elegance
The opulent Palace of Versailles will be the venue for dressage, showjumping, and equestrian cross-country events. Additionally, it will feature in the marathon circuit and host pentathlon events.
Louis XIV transformed Versailles into a symbol of royal power in the 17th century, housing thousands of staff. The gardens, with their mile-long canal, have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979 and remain a major attraction. The historical significance and beauty of Versailles will add a regal touch to the Olympic events.
5. Marseille: Sailing on the Blue Mediterranean
Marseille, France’s lively second city, will host the sailing competitions. Known for its passionate football culture, the city will see over 300 sailors compete on its scenic Mediterranean waters.
A new marina along the Corniche coastal road will serve as the competition base. Though the mistral wind is typically a winter and spring phenomenon, sailors will still face challenging conditions. Marseille will also host 10 football matches and was the starting point for the Olympic torch relay in France on May 8.
