Statue of Baron Haussmann - Monument to the Creator of Modern Paris

The Statue of Baron Georges Eugène Haussmann stands prominently at the corner of Boulevard Haussmann and Rue de Laborde, commemorating the visionary urban planner who transformed Paris into the magnificent city we see today. Erected in 1991, this bronze monument serves as a rare public reminder of the man whose revolutionary urban planning fundamentally reshaped the French capital between 1853 and 1870.

Location and Monument Details

Located at the intersection of Boulevard Haussmann and Rue de Laborde in the 8th arrondissement, the statue is easily accessible via the Havre-Caumartin metro station (Lines 3, 9, and RER A). The monument features a bronze sculpture of Baron Haussmann in formal 19th-century attire, standing on a stone pedestal that bears the inscription: "Baron G.E. Haussmann, 1809 - 1891 Préfet de la Seine de 1853 à 1870".

The statue's placement is particularly meaningful—situated on the very boulevard that bears his name and surrounded by the wide avenues, uniform building facades, and tree-lined streets that exemplify his urban vision.

Baron Haussmann: The Man Behind Modern Paris

Georges Eugène Haussmann (1809-1891) served as Préfet de la Seine under Napoleon III from 1853 to 1870, during which time he implemented the most ambitious urban transformation in Paris's history. Known as the "Haussmann renovation," this massive project demolished medieval neighborhoods and replaced them with the wide, straight boulevards, uniform building heights, and public spaces that define Paris today.

Haussmann's achievements included:

• Creating the Grand Boulevards: Including Boulevard Haussmann itself, along with Boulevard Saint-Germain, Boulevard du Montparnasse, and many others
• Establishing Building Standards: The iconic six-story Haussmanian buildings with iron balconies and cream-colored limestone facades
• Improving Infrastructure: Modern sewerage systems, gas lighting, and wide sidewalks for growing urban populations
• Designing Public Spaces: Parks, squares, and monuments that enhanced quality of life for Parisians

The Story Behind the Boulevard

Boulevard Haussmann, stretching 2.53 kilometers from the 8th to the 9th arrondissement, represents one of Haussmann's greatest achievements. The boulevard was designed to connect various parts of the city while creating space for the grand department stores—Galeries Lafayette and Printemps—that would become symbols of Parisian luxury and commerce.

The boulevard's creation required the demolition of numerous medieval streets and buildings, a controversial process that displaced thousands of residents but ultimately created one of the world's most famous shopping districts. Today, it remains a testament to Haussmann's vision of a modern, functional, and beautiful urban environment.

Visiting the Statue Today

Photography Tips: The statue is best photographed in the morning light when the bronze surface catches the sun beautifully. The contrast between the historical monument and the modern luxury boutiques creates compelling visual storytelling opportunities.

Nearby Attractions: After visiting the statue, explore the nearby Galeries Lafayette (2 minutes walk), Printemps department store (3 minutes walk), and the Opéra Garnier (5 minutes walk). The area perfectly demonstrates Haussmann's vision of combining commerce, culture, and urban planning.

Historical Context Walk: Consider starting at the statue and walking east along Boulevard Haussmann to see examples of classic Haussmanian architecture, uniform building heights, and the tree-lined avenue design that became the template for modern urban planning worldwide.

Legacy and Modern Recognition

While Baron Haussmann was forced to resign in 1870 due to political changes and financial concerns about his ambitious projects, his urban planning principles became the foundation for modern city planning worldwide. Cities from Buenos Aires to Hanoi adopted elements of the "Haussmanian model" for their own urban development.

The statue, unveiled more than a century after his death, reflects growing recognition of Haussmann's contributions to making Paris both beautiful and functional. Today, urban planners worldwide study his integration of transportation, commerce, residential areas, and public spaces as a model for sustainable city development.

Plan Your Visit

Best Times to Visit: Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) offer the best lighting and fewer crowds. The statue is particularly striking during the golden hour before sunset.

Getting There: Metro stations Havre-Caumartin (Lines 3, 9, RER A) or Chaussée d'Antin-La Fayette (Lines 7, 9) are both within 2 minutes' walk. The statue is directly on Boulevard Haussmann, making it easy to spot.

Combine with Shopping: The statue's location makes it an perfect starting point for exploring Boulevard Haussmann's luxury shopping district. Many visitors use it as a meeting point before exploring Galeries Lafayette and Printemps.

Don't miss this opportunity to pay respects to the visionary who created the Paris we love today. Understanding Haussmann's contributions enhances appreciation for the city's remarkable urban harmony and timeless beauty.

Learn More: For visitor reviews and additional travel tips, see TripAdvisor reviews and explore our complete history guide to Boulevard Haussmann.