Colonnes de Buren
The Buren columns, a black-and-white graphic playground.
The story of the place
Until the mid-1980s, the main courtyard of the Palais-Royal served as a car park. Jack Lang's culture ministry launched a public commission for it and, in July 1985, François Mitterrand chose from three projects Les Deux Plateaux by Daniel Buren: 260 columns of black-and-white striped marble, of uneven heights, planted across three thousand square metres. The outcry was immediate, a legal challenge suspended the works, which were completed all the same in 1986. Worn down, the columns were fully restored and reopened in 2010.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: Palais Royal (1/7). The spot is in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Decent golden hour (3/5): the golden light works, but surrounding buildings can cut it short depending on the season.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Colonnaded café on place Colette, next door to the Comédie-Française, open from 8am on weekdays, two minutes from the Buren columns.
Wine bar opened in 1980, bistro cooking and a long oak counter, Monday to Saturday from noon to 11pm, four minutes from the columns.
Grand Parisian brasserie with a 1910 interior, classic dishes and service until midnight, five minutes from the columns.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Colonnes de Buren?
Nearest metro station: Palais Royal (1/7). The spot is in the 1st arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Colonnes de Buren?
Decent golden hour (3/5): the golden light works, but surrounding buildings can cut it short depending on the season. Play with perspectives by standing on a column.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Colonnes de Buren?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Pyramide du Louvre, Rue Montorgueil, Square du Vert-Galant, Opéra Garnier.