Rond-Point des Droits de l’Homme

“A monument to rights, yet hidden?” a passerby muttered. Well, that is an interesting way to describe the Rond-Point des Droits de l’Homme. While most tourists gaze at the Eiffel Tower, only a few stumble upon this secluded spot. Tucked away in the Champ de Mars, this roundabout holds a surprising secret: a history intertwined with Freemasonry and the French Revolution.
The Rond-Point des Droits de l’Homme is a tribute to the bicentenary of the French Revolution. Erected in 1989, it stands as testament to the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, a crucial document that paved the way for modern democracies.
The design, however, presents a unique enigma. Created by Czech sculptor Ivan Theimer, it bears a strong resemblance to ancient Egyptian temples. One could argue that this temple-like monument is symbolic of the universality of rights. But the influence is not limited to Egypt. Freemasonry also weaves its way into the design. Look closely at the two obelisks flanking the inscription: they hide Masonic symbols, and so do the intricate engravings on the bronze door. And don’t forget to count the three holes forming A, the first letter of the word “Homme,” which represent the all-seeing eye – a key symbol in many Masonic traditions. The Rond-Point blends all these elements into a masterpiece of architecture, history, and captivating mystery. What secrets does it hold? That is for you to unravel.