Considered a mansion by some, a château by others, Cour des Vosges is experienced as an exceptional residence welcoming epicures, hedonists, history buffs, and lovers of Paris. The butler hands over the key to the rooms and suites, each of which feels like a pied-à-terre. Each landing recalls the architectural features of 17th-century buildings. Each hallway seems to lead, as in the past, toward stately apartments. Learn more
The first building that led to the creation of the square was La Maison des Tournelles, a private mansion built by Pierre d’Orgemont, which hosted parties and walks for the royal court. These activities ceased on July 10, 1559 with the death of King Henry II, who succumbed to a lance injury. In a fit of anger and sadness, Catherine de Medici had the Hôtel des Tournelles demolished and the location became a horse market.
At the time, there were no major squares where the royal court could assemble, party or walk. The construction of the "Place Royale" (royal square) therefore began in 1605 under King Henry IV. Construction of number 19 was entrusted to Charles Marchant, who was assigned numbers 15, 17 and 19 by the King.
The Place Royale was officially inaugurated to celebrate the engagement of King Louis XIII and Anne of Austria. The festivities lasted two days and the square quickly became one of the most fashionable places of the time.
Number 19 was bought by Pierre de Bellegarde, also known as the Marquis of Montbrun, who undertook the beautification of the building. At the time, Le Marais and more precisely the Place Royale were a hotspot for the French nobility.
Place Royale became Place des Vosges (homage to the department of Vosges, which became the first to pay taxes under the French Revolution).
The name of the square changed several times, then returned to its original name, Place Royale. Number 19 was given to the charitable office of the 8th arrondissement, then shortly afterwards to the welfare office of the city of Paris.
Number 19 was partly recognized as a Paris historical heritage monument thanks to André Malraux.
After three years of work, Evok – which acquired number 19 in 2016 – is opening Cour des Vosges, the fourth and latest hotel in the group's Parisian collection.
