Flame of Liberty
This golden flame was not made for Princess Diana. It is an exact copy of the Statue of Liberty's flame in New York, given to Paris in 1987. Ten years later it became the place where people from all over the world come to remember the princess. Here is its story, and what to do nearby.
A gift of Franco-American friendship
In 1986 two French firms restored the Statue of Liberty for its centenary: Les Métalliers Champenois for the copper and the Gohard workshops for gilding the flame. To thank them, a fundraiser launched with the International Herald Tribune, then celebrating its own centenary, paid for an exact replica of the flame, given to the French people.
Unveiled in 1987, the flame was set above the Alma tunnel and inaugurated on 10 May 1989 by Jacques Chirac, then Mayor of Paris. It is 3.5 metres high: a gilded copper flame on a grey and black marble base.
Why it is linked to Princess Diana
On 31 August 1997 the Princess of Wales died in a car crash in the Alma tunnel, right below the monument. That same morning people covered the flame with flowers. Ever since, fans and visitors have left messages and photos there, and many believe it was built for Diana.
The spot has officially been called Place Diana since a Paris Council vote in June 2019.
Things to do nearby
Getting there
Source: Wikipedia (FR), Flamme de la Liberté. Some links to ticket sites are affiliate links (see Transparency).
Frequently asked questions
Was the Flame of Liberty built for Princess Diana?
No. It is a replica of the Statue of Liberty's flame, given in 1987 and inaugurated in 1989. It became a place of remembrance after Diana died on 31 August 1997 in the tunnel right below it.
What does the Flame of Liberty stand for?
Friendship between France and the United States. It thanks the French craftsmen who restored the Statue of Liberty in 1986.
Where is the Flame of Liberty?
On Place Diana in the 16th arrondissement, above the Pont de l'Alma tunnel. Métro Alma-Marceau (line 9).
How big is it?
3.5 metres: a gilded copper flame on a marble base, the actual size of the New York flame.
Carry on along the Seine
The Bateaux-Mouches pier is 3 minutes away at the foot of the Pont de l'Alma. One hour cruising past the great landmarks of Paris.