Obelisk of Luxor

The Basics

In the 19th century, the Egyptian government gave two obelisks to France. One—the Luxor Obelisk—was taken from the entrance of the Luxor Temple and transported to Paris in 1833. The second never left the country and was formally given back to the Egyptians in the 20th century. The Luxor Obeliskis a striking monument, thanks to its ornate carvings, its size (it weighs in at 250 metric tons), and its gold capstone (which was added to the landmark in 1998). It occupies pride of place in Place de la Concorde, Paris’ largest public square and site of the revolution’s most infamous guillotine executions.

Today, the Luxor Obeliskis a celebrated symbol of the city and of peace. It can be viewed on hop-on hop-off bus tours; on walking, bike, and driving tours; or explored independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The original pedestal of the Luxor Obeliskis currently on display in the Louvre; its current pedestal includes gold inlaid diagrams that show how it was transported.

• The Luxor Obelisk was scaled (without ropes or gear) by French urban climber Alain Robert.

• Necessary viewing for history buffs and amateur Egyptologists, the Luxor Obeliskfeatures hieroglyphics that tell the tale of celebrated pharaoh Ramses II.

How to Get There

The Luxor Obelisk, situated in Place de la Concorde in the 8th arrondissement, is located in the heart of the city. Take Métro line 1, 8, or 12 to Concorde, or use bus line 24, 42, 52, 72, 73, 84, or 94. Alternatively, the landmark can be accessed by car, on foot, or by Vélib’ bike.

When to Get There

Place de la Concorde and the Luxor Obeliskare both free to visit and are accessible to the public 24/7. There’s no bad time to appreciate the landmark’s beauty, though it’s particularly attractive at night, when it’s illuminated.

Egyptian Antiquities at the Louvre

The Luxor Obeliskis situated conveniently close to the Louvre; plan to visit both in one day for an Egypt-themed tour of the city. The Louvre’s collection includes a number of priceless Egyptian artifacts, from carvings and papyrus scrolls to mummies and canopic jars (not to mention the obelisk’s pedestal).

Ways to explore

The Luxor Obelisk is a striking monument, thanks to its ornate carvings, size (it weighs in around 250 metric tons), and gold capstone, which was added to the landmark in 1998. It occupies pride of place in Place de la Concorde, Paris’ largest public square and site of the revolution’s most infamous guillotine executions. Today, the Luxor Obelisk is a celebrated symbol of the city and of peace. It can be viewed on hop-on, hop-off bus tours, as well as on walking, biking, and driving tours.

Accessibility

The Place de la Concorde features wheelchair-accessible entrances. When an event is taking place in the plaza, it can become quite crowded, which can be overwhelming for some visitors. The Paris bus system is typically wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, umbrella, sun protection

What to wear

Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended when planning to spend time outdoors exploring the city.

Not allowed

Climbing or sitting on the monument

Amenities

Restroom in the Tuileries Garden, metro stations and parks nearby

Address

The Luxor Obelisk is located at the center of Place de la Concorde in Paris’ 8th arrondissement. Place de la Concorde is accessible 24 hours a day, except during special events held in the plaza.

Driving

While driving in central Paris can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking, the Place de la Concorde is accessible via the Boulevard Périphérique. From there, take the exit toward Porte Maillot and follow the signs for Place de la Concorde.

Public transportation

To get to Place de la Concorde by metro, simply get off at Concorde station, which is served by metro lines 1, 8, and 12. Bus lines 42, 45, 72, 73, 84, and 94 also serve the area.

Best times to visit

Visiting the Luxor Obelisk in the early morning or late afternoon will help you avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less busy at the Paris monuments, making it easier to take photos with your group.

Best months to visit

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are a lovely time to visit the city, as you avoid the heat and crowds of summer.

Special events

The plaza is frequently used for special events, including Bastille Day celebrations on June 14.