“Marcel Dassault? Who’s that?” you might ask, standing here at the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées. This isn’t just any traffic circle. It’s a roundabout steeped in Parisian history and named to honor a remarkable man.
Originally laid out in 1670 by André Le Nôtre, the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées was a simple trace. It sat in the middle of the Champs-Élysées. By 1763, it had taken its current form on maps thanks to Louis François Deharme. For centuries, it was simply known as the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées.
But in 1991, that changed. The city officially renamed it Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées-Marcel Dassault. This was in honor of Marcel Dassault. He was an airplane constructor, politician, and press magnate. Dassault’s offices bordered this very place.
Look around. You’re standing at the intersection of some of Paris’s most famous avenues. There’s the Champs-Élysées. The Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt. And the elegant Avenue Montaigne. Don’t forget the Avenue Matignon. This location is at the heart of Parisian life.
Take a closer look at number 7 Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées-Marcel Dassault. Here stands the Hôtel Marcel-Dassault also known as Hôtel d’Espeyran. This building has its own fascinating story.
Originally, an apartment block stood here. From 1888 to 1893, it was rebuilt. Architects Louis and Henri Parent created a Louis XV style building. Félicie Durand, the widow of Frédéric Sabatier d’Espeyran commissioned it. The Parisian locksmith Roy crafted the iron gates surrounding the building.
The actress Sophie Croizette lived here before leaving the theatre. In 1952, Marcel Dassault bought the building from the Sabatier d’Espeyran family. He also acquired number 9 Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées. Together, they became known as Hôtel Marcel-Dassault.
The architect Georges Hennequin Jr renovated the premises. It became the headquarters for Marcel Dassault’s industrial group. Since 2002, the French auction house Artcurial has occupied it.
If you are a film buff, you might recognize the Hôtel Marcel-Dassault from the movie Au revoir là-haut. In the movie, it served as the residence of Édouard Péricourt’s family.
And for those seeking refreshment, pop into Restaurant du Rond Point. It is located in the heart of the Théâtre du Rond Point. Enjoy a drink in its modern setting or on the terrace.
So, the next time you are at the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées-Marcel Dassault, remember its rich history. Think of the visionary Marcel Dassault. This roundabout is more than just a place where avenues meet. It’s a testament to Parisian history and ingenuity.