Reference

The Tuileries Palace, once a prominent royal and imperial residence located in Paris adjacent to the Louvre, was destroyed by fire during the Paris Commune in 1871. This event marked a significant moment in Parisian history, leading to several notable changes:

1. Complete Demolition: The ruins of the Tuileries Palace were left standing until they were completely demolished in 1883. The demolition opened up the area between the Louvre Museum and the gardens, creating the space we recognize today as part of the Tuileries Gardens.

2. Urban Transformation: The removal of the palace's ruins led to a transformation in the urban landscape of Paris. It provided a more open view from the Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe, enhancing one of Paris's most famous axes, known as the Axe Historique. This stretch now offers a clear line of sight through notable landmarks.

3. Garden Enhancement: With the palace's demolition, the Tuileries Gardens, originally designed by landscape architect André Le Nôtre, gained prominence and became a major public space and a significant cultural area in the heart of Paris. The gardens serve as a bridge between the historic Louvre and the modern city.

4. Architectural Impact: The absence of the Tuileries Palace left a mark on French architectural history. Although the physical structure is gone, its influence can still be felt in architectural styles reminiscent of the Second Empire which are evident in various parts of Paris and even in architecture abroad.

For further detailed reading, you can check sources such as the Wikipedia entry on Tuileries Palace or other historical references like Amusing Planet's article on the palace.