Place du Chatalet
Don’t come here looking for tranquillity – this is one of the busiest crossroads in Paris. The Place du Châtelet is a historic square flanked on either side by a theatre. There are however many lovely things to see, including the Chatalet or “Palm” Fountain, erected in 1806 to commemorate the victories of Napoleon I, and the Italian Renaissance-inspiried theatres, designed by Davioud in 1862.
The Theatre du Chatalet, with over two thousand seats, is devoted primarily to opera and music. The Theatre de la Ville – almost its twin – was for a long time named after the actress Sarah Bernhardt, who performed there for over twenty years. Today, its programme is divided between drama, dance and music.
