Statue of Michel Paccard, Chamonix

Statue of Michel Paccard, Chamonix

The Statue of Michel Paccard in Chamonix, France, stands as a testament to the historic first ascent of Mont Blanc. In 1786, Paccard, along with Jacques Balmat, successfully conquered the mountain, claiming a reward offered by Horace Bénédict de Saussure. Despite this achievement, Paccard's contribution was initially overshadowed by Balmat and Saussure, leading to the erection of a statue honoring them in 1887.

However, it wasn't until the bicentenary in 1986 that Paccard received his own statue. Positioned behind the original monument and gazing towards Mont Blanc, Paccard's statue portrays him in a seated position, reflecting a demeanor of silent contemplation. This representation symbolizes Paccard's thoughtful contribution to mountaineering history, contrasting with Balmat's dramatic gesture and Saussure's financier role.

While Balmat and Saussure's statue captures the moment of triumph, Paccard's monument embodies the quieter reflection and contemplative spirit of exploration. Together, these statues in Chamonix's main square pay homage to the pioneers of Mont Blanc, ensuring that all key figures in this historic endeavor are appropriately honored and remembered.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Chamonix. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The GPSmyCity App

Statue of Michel Paccard on Map

Sight Name: Statue of Michel Paccard
Sight Location: Chamonix, France (See walking tours in Chamonix)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Chamonix, France

Create Your Own Walk in Chamonix

Create Your Own Walk in Chamonix

Creating your own self-guided walk in Chamonix is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Chamonix Introduction Walking Tour

Chamonix Introduction Walking Tour

Many of Chamonix’s attractions – apart from the surrounding majestic mountain peaks themselves – are one way or another associated with the Alps: statues and monuments of the first climbers of Mont Blanc, etc. Take this orientation walk to explore some of the city’s key attractions.

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles