Palais de Chaillot

After Napoleon's empire fell, his plans for a palace for his sons on Chaillot hill didn't go through. But it was later used for the original Trocadero palace which was build for the Universal Exhibition (1878).

Located in the 16th arrondissement, the Palais de Chaillot has a spectacular viewing platform for the Eiffel Tower across the Seine.

In 1937, the Palais was replaced by the present Neo-Classical building with huge wings for another exhibition. There three museums located here which you can go to but I chose not to go. Even in the winter time there were an array of souvenir sellers with tacky souvenirs that you can find anywhere in the world. I strongly suggest taking a self pic shot of yourself and the Eiffel Tower like I did.

I searched all over the internet for the gold/bronze statues that are located on both sides of the viewing platform. They are so beautiful and I wish I knew the exact history of the statues so if you know, please share. There were four statues on each side.

When you walk below the viewing platform there are two giant bronze statues of Apollo and Hercules on each side of the front terrace.

I was really impressed with how big this place was. It was the perfect viewing platform as well as being so magnificently decorated. I was also hoping to visit the Cimetière de Passy which is across the way from the Palais but it was closed for renovation. I particularly wanted to see the grave sites of: Claude Debussy, Gabriel Fauré, Comte Emanuel de las Cases (historian and friend of Napoleon!), Berthe Morisot and Henri Farman.

I hope to one day return to Paris and see it and maybe visit the Palais when it isn't so dreary out. Maybe a nice fall or spring day. Perhaps at night, the night shots I've seen from the viewing platform were jaw dropping. One day I know we'll go back for sure.