The Morris Columns (Colonnes Morris or Colonnes d’Affichage) are a set of ornamental cast-iron columns located on the streets of Paris, France. They are a distinctive feature of the streetscape in Paris, France.
![Morris Columns of Paris DSCF4097](https://culturetravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Morris-Columns-of-Paris-DSCF4097.jpg)
These ubiquitous cylindrical advertising columns were designed in the 1860s by Gabriel Morris as a means to display posters and advertisements.
![Morris Columns of Paris DSCF2906](https://culturetravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Morris-Columns-of-Paris-DSCF2906.jpg)
The columns stand about 4 meters (13 feet) tall and have a distinctive decorative design inspired by the neo-Renaissance style popular during Napoleon III’s reign. They feature fluted shafts with ornate capitals and bases adorned with plant and animal motifs.
![Morris Columns of Paris DSCF3145](https://culturetravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Morris-Columns-of-Paris-DSCF3145.jpg)
Originally numbering over 100, the Morris Columns allowed the city to regulate and consolidate poster advertising after previously being displayed in a haphazard way on buildings and fences. Their design allowed posters to be glued to the column’s surface and removed periodically.
![Morris Columns of Paris DSCF4554](https://culturetravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Morris-Columns-of-Paris-DSCF4554.jpg)
While their original advertising function has diminished over time, the Morris Columns are now considered iconic pieces of street furniture and emblems of 19th-century Parisian urban design. They are operated by JCDecaux.
![Morris Columns of Paris DSCF4552](https://culturetravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Morris-Columns-of-Paris-DSCF4552.jpg)
Many have been designated as historic monuments. Hundreds of authentic Morris Columns remain standing in locations across Paris today.