The beautiful Palais Royal Colonnes De Duren(Les Deux Plateaux) aka stripped columns are popular with many a fashionista. Many tourists don’t actually make it to this side of the 1st Arrondissement, as they stick to only the Louvre which sits across the road from Palais Royal. Les Deux Plateaux as it is commonly known as Colonnes De Duren is a highly controversial art installation created by artist Daniel Buren in 1985-1986. At the time is was conceived and built it caused controversy over the costs and suitability to the historical landmark that it sits on.
Les Deux Plateaux In Palais Royal & Exploring Jardin du Palais Royal
This is among the list of things to do in Paris for first-time visitors. The candy stripped black and white columns are located on the inner courtyard of Palais Royal. The beautiful Jardin du Palais Royal (Palais Royal gardens) nearby are also worth a visit when you are exploring Paris as they are very quiet and offer the perfect spot to relax in such a busy and bustling metropolis. The gardens when in full bloom are just beautiful together with the fountains and manicured trees that create a scenic backdrop.
It’s a shame this place doesn’t get that much of a look in while everyone is taking selfies by the Louvre pyramids. Okay, that may be a good thing in that it will remain ever more peaceful without the crowds and yet, on the other hand, I love showing people what they are missing out on if they choose not to visit.
Interesting Palais Royal Facts
Palais Royal was designed by architect Jacques Lemercier in 1629, Palais-Royal was originally called Palais-Cardinal. It was actually constructed to serve as the personal residence of Cardinal Richelieu, a Roman Catholic cardinal who served as the chief minister to France’s King Louis XIII. When the cardinal died, the property was transferred to the King and as a result of the new ownership, it was renamed to Palais-Royal. It was soon to be residence to many a royal family that passed through the years.
The art Buren columns installation by French artist Daniel Buren and located in Palais Royal courtyard’s former parking lot. The columns were designed to conceal ventilation shafts for an underground extension of the culture ministry’s premises. Some of the columns extend below courtyard level and are surrounded by pools of water into which passersby toss coins in.
So next time you are visiting the Louvre, be sure to add Palais Royal to your explorer’s list, the bonus is that its only a few meters away. More on Paris on the blog from my Paris apartment with views of the Eiffel Tower in addition to checking out Foundation Louis Vuitton.
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