Paris has chosen the iconic Champs-Elysees avenue and the historic Place de la Concorde to host the opening ceremony for the Summer Paralympics on Wednesday.

This famous two-kilometer-long avenue, lined with trees and wide sidewalks, stretches through the 8th arrondissement, connecting the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. Known for its luxury shops, cafes, and palaces, the Champs-Elysees is a popular gathering spot for both Parisians and tourists. It has been the site of major celebrations, including France's football World Cup victories, the annual Bastille Day military parade, and the final leg of the Tour de France.

The avenue, which has historical significance dating back to the mid-17th century when it was first developed by Louis XIV's city planner, will host a public parade for the opening ceremony. This event will feature over 180 delegations and 4,400 Paralympians from around the world.

At the other end of the Champs-Elysees lies Place de la Concorde, the largest square in Paris. This square, which has a storied past as a site of execution during the French Revolution, will host the official parade for ticket holders, along with protocol and artistic segments of the ceremony. The square's most prominent feature is the Luxor Obelisk, a gift from Egypt in 1830, originally erected by Ramses II in the 13th century BC.

The Champs-Elysees and Place de la Concorde are deeply rooted in French history, making them fitting locations for this prestigious event.