The Plaza Hotel was founded in Paris in 1913. However, a few months before its inauguration, a competitor with the same name sued the hotel on Avenue Montaigne. It was the general manager, Emile Armbruster, who had the idea of adding “Athénée” to “Plaza” in order to calm the matter. The Plaza Athénée was able to open without a trial and its name has always been associated with French chic and luxury. In 2010, it was the first 5-star hotel to be awarded the “Living Heritage Company” label. In 2011, it was one of four luxury Parisian hotels to receive the official “palace” distinction.