Isn’t it intriguing that a roundabout in Paris honors an Albanian hero? This is Place Skanderbeg. It is a unique spot in the 19th arrondissement.
Place Skanderbeg sits where the city meets Aubervilliers. It’s practically in the northwest corner of the 19th arrondissement. The roundabout has an oval shape. It stretches about 130 meters from south to north. It measures around 110 meters from east to west.
Look at the large, wooded circle in the center. Unfortunately, pedestrians can only access a small part of it. This is via a small strip of land at the southern end. The Place Skanderbeg connects several important roads. Avenue de la Porte-d’Aubervilliers comes in from the south. Avenue Victor-Hugo enters from the northwest. Rue Madeleine-Vionnet arrives from the northeast. Plus, four slip roads provide access to and from the périphérique.
The name Skanderbeg comes from George Castriota. He was an Albanian warrior. He lived from 1405 to 1468. Skanderbeg is a significant figure in Albanian history. A large square in Tirana, Albania also bears his name.
Place Skanderbeg came into being in 1967. This happened during the construction of the Paris périphérique. It was initially known as “voie AZ/19.” Later, a municipal decree officially named it Place Skanderbeg. The square expanded further. This extension incorporated land in continuation of the existing place.
Interestingly, a statue was planned for Place Skanderbeg. The aim was to honor Skanderbeg. Agim Rada, the Director of the National Center for Restoration, worked on the statue’s design. Rada wanted to depict Skanderbeg not just as a warrior. He wanted to show him as a leader. The statue would stand about five meters tall. It would feature Christian elements. These elements included a cross and the eagle. The eagle is a symbol of the Kastrioti emblem.
Look around. The statue never materialized. However, the spirit of Skanderbeg lives on in the square’s name. Place Skanderbeg serves as a reminder of cultural connections. It highlights the shared history between France and Albania. Take a moment to reflect on this surprising tribute. It is a tribute to a national hero. It stands in an unexpected corner of Paris.