Place de Jaude

Place de Jaude is the central square of Clermont-Ferrand featuring a monumental equestrian statue at its center, ringed by modern buildings, shops, restaurants, and the Opera Theatre. The space includes planted areas with trees and tram lines that connect to other parts of the city.

The location served as a marketplace during Roman times before becoming swampy terrain in the Middle Ages. Modern development transformed it into the organized public square we see today in the early 20th century.

The equestrian statue was created by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in 1903, the same sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty. Today, the square serves as the city's social hub where locals pass through and pause to meet.

The square is easy to navigate on foot and provides access to shopping, dining, and public transportation connections. Underground parking is available, and tram stops offer convenient connections to other parts of the city.

The statue of the Celtic warrior Vercingetorix was one of the first monuments dedicated to a Gallic fighter and reflects the city's deep connection to ancient history. Its prominent position has defined the appearance of the square for over a century.