If you’re looking for a peaceful and historical place to visit in New Orleans, New Place de France is definitely worth checking out. This small park, located in the French Quarter, is home to the Joan of Arc statue, a gift from the people of France in 1958. The statue depicts the heroic figure on horseback, holding a banner and a sword, and is a replica of Emmanuel Frémiet’s statue in Place des Pyramides in Paris.
Not only is New Place de France a great spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, but it’s also a significant landmark with a rich history. The park was established in 1972 and named after the French gift, and it’s located in the former Plaza de France, which was once a bustling commercial hub in the 18th century. Today, the park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the Quarter, surrounded by charming buildings and colorful architecture.
History of Place de France
French Colonial Era
Place de France has a rich history that dates back to the French Colonial Era. In 1718, the city of New Orleans was founded by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. Place de France was originally known as Place d’Armes and was the center of the city’s social and political life. It was here that the French governor’s mansion, the Cabildo, and the St. Louis Cathedral were built.
During the French Colonial Era, Place d’Armes was the site of many important events, including military parades, public executions, and celebrations of religious festivals. In 1762, France ceded Louisiana to Spain, and New Orleans became a Spanish colony. Despite the change in ownership, Place d’Armes continued to be an important gathering place for the city’s residents.
Spanish Colonial Era
During the Spanish Colonial Era, Place d’Armes was renamed Plaza de Armas. In 1788, a massive fire destroyed much of the city, including many of the buildings surrounding the plaza. The Cabildo and the St. Louis Cathedral were among the few structures that survived the fire.
After the fire, the Spanish government commissioned the construction of a new city plan, which included the rebuilding of the plaza. The new plaza was renamed Place de France, and a statue of Joan of Arc was erected in the center of the square in 1958. The statue was a gift from the people of France and is a replica of the Emmanuel Frémiet’s in Place des Pyramids in Paris.
Today, Place de France is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of the city’s rich history. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Cabildo and the St. Louis Cathedral, and is home to many festivals and events throughout the year.
New Place de France Project
As we explore the beauty and history of New Orleans, we cannot overlook the New Place de France project. This park is a symbol of the strong cultural ties between France and Louisiana. The project is a collaboration between the City of New Orleans and the French government, and it aims to revitalize the area around Place de France and provide a beautiful public space for residents and visitors alike.
Design and Architecture
The New Place de France project is designed to be a modern interpretation of a classic French garden. The park will feature beautiful landscaping, fountains, and seating areas. The centerpiece of the park will be a stunning sculpture of Joan of Arc, which was a gift from the French government to the people of New Orleans.
The park’s design is intended to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The layout of the park will provide ample space for people to relax, play, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The park will also be accessible to people of all ages and abilities, with features like wheelchair ramps and easy-to-navigate paths.
Community Involvement
The New Place de France project is a collaborative effort between the City of New Orleans and the French government, but it also involves input from the local community. The project team has held several public meetings to gather feedback and ideas from residents and business owners in the area.
Community involvement has been crucial to the success of the project. The team has worked closely with local stakeholders to ensure that the park meets the needs of the community. For example, the team has incorporated features like shaded seating areas and public restrooms, which were identified as important by community members.
The New Place de France project is an exciting development for New Orleans, and we are proud to be a part of it. We look forward to seeing the park come to life and becoming a beautiful public space that everyone can enjoy.
Impact on New Orleans
Economic Impact
The establishment of Place de France in New Orleans had a significant impact on the city’s economy. The French brought with them a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various industries such as shipbuilding, agriculture, and trade. The port of New Orleans became a major hub for international trade, with goods such as sugar, tobacco, and cotton being exported to Europe and other parts of the world. The French also introduced new crops to the region, such as coffee and bananas, which helped to diversify the local economy.
Today, New Orleans remains an important center for trade and commerce, with the port of New Orleans being one of the busiest in the world. The city is also home to a thriving tourism industry, with millions of visitors coming each year to experience the unique culture and history of the city.
Cultural Impact
The French have had a profound impact on the culture of New Orleans, which can still be seen today. One of the most notable examples is the city’s architecture, which is heavily influenced by French styles such as the Creole townhouse and the shotgun house. French cuisine is also a major part of the city’s culinary scene, with dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets being popular among locals and visitors alike.
The French also played a significant role in the development of jazz music in New Orleans. Many of the city’s early jazz musicians were of French descent, and the French language and culture continue to be celebrated in the city’s music scene today.
Overall, the impact of the French on New Orleans has been immense, shaping the city’s economy, architecture, cuisine, and culture in ways that continue to be felt today.
Future of New Place de France
As we look to the future of New Place de France, we are committed to making this park a sustainable and vibrant space for locals and visitors alike. Our efforts are focused on creating a park that is not only beautiful, but also environmentally friendly.
Sustainability Efforts
We are implementing several sustainability initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint and preserve the natural beauty of the park. These include:
- Installing solar panels to power park lighting and amenities
- Implementing a recycling program for park visitors
- Using native plants in our landscaping to reduce water usage and promote biodiversity
- Partnering with local organizations to host educational events on sustainability and the environment
We believe that these efforts will not only benefit the environment, but also enhance the overall experience of visiting New Place de France.
Upcoming Events
We are excited to announce several upcoming events at New Place de France. These events are designed to showcase the park’s beauty and provide opportunities for community engagement. Some of the events include:
| Event Name | Date | Description |
| Music in the Park | June 15, 2023 | A free concert featuring local musicians |
| Park Cleanup Day | July 20, 2023 | A volunteer event to help keep the park clean and beautiful |
| Art in the Park | August 10, 2023 | An art fair featuring local artists and artisans |
We hope that these events will bring the community together and foster a sense of pride in our park. We look forward to seeing you there!
Hotel Royal New Orleans
If you’re planning to visit Place de France in New Orleans, you’ll be glad to know that there’s a great lodging option just 300 yards away. The Hotel Royal New Orleans is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter. With its prime location, you’ll have easy access to all the best that New Orleans has to offer, from world-class restaurants to famous jazz clubs. Besides, you can enjoy the hotel’s stylish rooms and luxurious amenities, making your stay in the Big Easy comfortable and unforgettable. So why not make Hotel Royal New Orleans your home base for your next NOLA adventure?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Place_de_la_Concorde
https://www.unjourdeplusaparis.com/en/paris-reportage/place-de-france