Originally created as marching and drilling grounds for the nearby military school, the Champ de Mars today is one of Paris' most famous green spaces. Lying underneath the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars was fittingly named after the Roman god of war for its military vocation.
An important place in France's history, the Champ de Mars massacre took place here in 1791 when anti-Royalists rebelled against the decision that King Louis XVI would rule under a constitutional monarchy and it was the home of several Universal Expositions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, the Champ de Mars is a major venue for national events and festivals, as well as being a popular place for Parisians to enjoy the sunshine. Take a picnic, let the kids run around in the play areas, and enjoy one of the most famous views in the world.
