Place de la Bastille
Place de la Bastille stands on the site of the fortress stormed on 14 July 1789 and demolished in the following months; its outline is still marked by differently coloured paving stones visible on boulevard Henri-IV. At the centre rises the July Column, erected in 1840 in memory of the victims of the 1830 revolution.
Forty-seven metres high and crowned by the gilded Spirit of Freedom, it contains a funerary crypt. Long a traffic roundabout, the square was largely pedestrianised in 2021. Tip: continue down to the Arsenal marina just below, or to the Coulée verte, which starts a few minutes away.
Frequently asked questions about Place de la Bastille
Where is Place de la Bastille located?
Place de la Bastille is located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, in the Bastille area. It is easy to reach on foot from the main landmarks nearby and fits naturally into a Paris walking tour.
Is Place de la Bastille free to visit?
Yes, Place de la Bastille is free to visit — no ticket required.
How long does a visit to Place de la Bastille take?
Plan around 12 minutes to enjoy Place de la Bastille at a relaxed pace — a little more in high season or if you want to take photos.
What are the opening hours of Place de la Bastille?
Accessible librement 24h/24. These hours are indicative — check public holidays and exceptional closures before you go.
What is there to see around Place de la Bastille?
The Bastille area has plenty to discover within a few minutes' walk. You can chain several stops by generating a custom walking itinerary starting from Place de la Bastille.