Paris 2024, a glimpse of the ephemeral stadiums and event decorations

Less than a month before the start of the Olympics, the city is bustling and the daily life of residents is more disrupted than ever: ongoing construction sites, stands being built, and fan zones are spreading throughout Greater Paris. From the banks of the Seine to the suburbs, the capital is donning its best attire, combining its rich historical heritage with the innovation of the Olympic Games, while respecting its commitment to sustainable development. Since April, the capital has been transforming into a vast open-air playground, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Place de la Concorde being reinvented as temporary stadiums. Here's a closer look at some of these new Olympic sites.

The Eiffel Tower: A beacon of sports spectacle

The Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris, will be at the center of the stage for beach volleyball and men's indoor football competitions. The temporary stadium, aptly named Stade Tour Eiffel, will be built at the foot of the tower, allowing spectators to watch the events while marveling at the architectural grandeur of the monument.

Place de la Concorde: A stage for urban sports

Place de la Concorde, one of the largest and most historically significant squares in Paris, will transform into a hub for urban sports, hosting BMX freestyle, 3x3 basketball, breaking, and skateboarding. The temporary stadiums, strategically placed around the obelisk, will create a tailor-made atmosphere for these dynamic disciplines.

Grand Palais: A showcase for fencing

The Grand Palais, an iconic site among Parisian monuments, has long served as a prestigious setting for numerous events, both sports and arts. Built for the 1900 Paris Exposition and constructed using the most advanced techniques of the time, it boasts a majestic nave topped with an impressive glass roof that is renowned worldwide. Currently undergoing renovations, it will reopen specially for the event, where it will host two sports combining precision and elegance: fencing and taekwondo.

Château de Versailles: A sumptuous setting for equestrian events

The Château de Versailles, famous for its majestic gardens, sumptuous architecture, and royal history, will serve as a magnificent backdrop for the equestrian events. The temporary equestrian stadium, nestled in the peaceful beauty of the gardens, will offer spectators a unique opportunity to witness the grace and skill of horse and rider. These temporary structures, designed with sustainability and respect for the city's architectural treasures in mind, will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, though it is important to recognize that they somewhat disrupt the daily lives of Parisians. City officials are aware of the disruptions caused by their construction and are taking measures to mitigate them. Noise barriers have been installed in some areas, detours have been set up for pedestrians and cyclists, and there are plans to restore the sites to their original state after the festivities. While some opinions remain mixed, others are convinced that the long-term benefits of hosting the Games should outweigh the short-term inconveniences.