Place Garibaldi, Central square in Nice, France
The square displays yellow facades with green shutters, arcade passages and a central statue surrounded by symmetrically arranged buildings and a fountain. The rectangular layout is bordered by uniform multi-story structures featuring enclosed arcades on the ground floor. Paving and green spaces divide the public area into different zones for pedestrians.
The square was laid out in 1773 under the name Piazza Vittorio to welcome the King of Sardinia, Victor Amadeus III of Turin. Following the annexation of Nice to France in 1860, it received its current name. The original architecture followed Sardinian-Piedmontese planning principles with uniform design of the surrounding buildings.
The square honors Giuseppe Garibaldi, born in Nice in 1807 before he assumed a leading role in the Italian unification movement. His central monument recalls the historical connections between Nice and Italy as well as the political transformations of the 19th century. The square serves as a gathering place for local events and public assemblies.
The square is accessible via tram lines T1 and T2, which provide connections to various neighborhoods. Numerous restaurants and cafes line the arcades, including the long-established Café de Turin. The pedestrian area allows free access without admission fees at any time of day. Nearby stops offer connections to additional public transportation.
The building facades employ trompe-l'oeil painting techniques that simulate architectural elements rather than using actual stone decorations. This illusionistic approach was a cost-effective method to give the square a uniform aristocratic appearance. The painted details include window frames, cornices and ornaments that appear as three-dimensional stonework from a distance.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
