Tourists take a photo of the Olympic rings (anneaux olympiques) displayed on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, on July 16, 2024. Photo: AFP
The Olympic Games in France begin on 26 July with a visually stunning opening ceremony through central Paris along the River Seine.
But the Seine is not the only scenic backdrop to the Games, with several other Paris landmarks playing host to sporting events.
Below is a list of some of them:
Eiffel Tower
The beach volleyball will take place against one of the most iconic backdrops in Olympics history, with the Eiffel Tower looming over the athletes as they compete in a temporary stadium built in the Champ de Mars park.
The Eiffel Tower which will be the backdrop for beach volleyball. Photo: AFP
The Grand Palais
Unveiled in 1900 for the Paris Universal Exhibition, the Grand Palais is visible across swathes of Paris thanks to its sweeping glass roof. Paris 2024 fencing and taekwondo will take place under its stunning nave.
The facade of the Grand Palais after renovation work in Paris, France, on May 18, 2024. Photo: AFP
Invalides
A long stretch of lawn by the Seine that ends with the Hotel des Invalides, a 17th century complex of buildings that began life as a military hospital and also includes Napoleon's tomb, Invalides usually plays host to Parisians drinking wine or tossing a frisbee. During the Games, it will host archery, road cycling and athletics events.
View of the work being done for the Olympics in front of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris, France on June 07, 2024. Photo: AFP
Pont Alexandre 111
Linking the Grand Palais with Invalides, the Pont Alexandre III is one of France's grandest bridges, with gold-coloured statues at either end. It will be the site of road cycling, marathon swimming and triathlon events during the Olympics.
Pont Alexandre III and the dome of Les Invalides in the background. Photo: 123RF
Place de la Concorde
A one-time site of high-profile executions, the Place de la Concorde is now one of Paris' most beloved public spaces, located in a wealthy neighbourhood between the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. As part of the Paris Olympics' plan to integrate urban sports into city life, the square will hold 3X3 basketball, breakdancing, BMX freestyle and skateboarding.
One of Paris' most loved public spaces, the Place de la Concorde. Photo: 123RF
Roland Garros
With its world-renowned red-clay tennis courts known as the longtime home of the French Open, Roland Garros will host Olympics tennis events, but is also adding boxing to its repertoire during the Games.
Roland Garros will host Olympics tennis events after recently being the venue for the French Open. Photo: AFP
