Paris in Motion Ahead of the Olympics
July 24, 2024
Days away from the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Olympic Games and Paris has become a playground for the world’s top athletes. Monuments have been transformed into arenas to showcase talent and competition for the next six weeks. Even Mayor Anne Hidalgo proved her mettle by taking a dip in the Seine River to prove it’s worthy of the best.
While in some ways it’s as if the Olympic Games have taken over the city, the reality is that the games have somehow integrated themselves right into Parisian life. With arena seating nestled up to centuries old statues and opening ceremonies set to change history, the world waits to see if Paris hits the mark with their motto “Games Wide Open”.
Take a walk with Greater Europe Mission worker Emma Turner as she captures on film the reality of living in a city preparing to welcome the world.
Barriers line the Seine to keep locals and tourists from crossing into zones reserved for the opening ceremonies. Across the city, temporary signage directs spectators toward monuments hosting a multitude of sporting events.
Across the city, temporary signage is set up to direct spectators toward monuments that will host varying Olympic events.
Above: Fencing keeps passers-by from accessing what will be a spectacular view of the opening ceremonies. Barge boats representing each country are set to float the Seine River with spectators cheering them on.
Below: For some, life goes on as normal. This is the reality for bouquinistes (booksellers) who operate out of the famous green stalls lined along the Seine River. These green stalls have gained UNESCO status as they have operated since the sixteenth century. Famous writers and artists like Ernest Hemmingway spent their days scanning for books among countless sellers. Not even the 2024 Olympic Games could budge this tradition!
Tourists manoeuvre around continued construction as the Trocadero is transformed into a cycling track.
Above: The famous Hôtel de Ville, located in the center of Paris, will serve as the start point for the games most legendary race: the marathon. Aside from kicking off the 26.2 mile run, it will also host events for Olympics attendees, such as free concerts and other activities.
Right: Tourists attempt to sneak photos of the Olympic Games setups before they are set to reveal in late July.
Installed at the top of the Arc de Triumph is the symbol for the Paralympics. The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games will run August 28th through September 8th.
Curious how to pray for France during the Olympics? Read how one GEM worker is hosting an arts outreach or download a prayer guide from France1Million.
About the writer/photographer: Emma Turner is a Storyteller with Greater Europe Mission in Paris, France serving women throughout the city.