Champ de Mars

Champ de Mars is a wide open esplanade in central Valence with a flat surface and contemporary design layout, bordered by city streets on all sides. The space features grass areas mixed with paved zones and centers around a notable historic structure with two water basins nearby.

Created in 1773, this esplanade served as a gathering place during the French Revolution where important figures including a young Napoleon Bonaparte assembled. This military past shaped its early role as a central assembly point for the city.

The Peynet kiosk at the center serves as a gathering point where people pause to enjoy the surroundings, with musical fountains and modern garden spaces creating a social hub. This blend of historic structure and contemporary design shapes how locals and visitors use this public space.

A large underground parking facility beneath the esplanade provides convenient vehicle access to the city center. The site is flat and easy to walk through, with nearby parks and green spaces offering additional outdoor options.

From this level, visitors can see the forested Ardèche hills and the ruins of Crussol Castle on the horizon. This distant view connects the urban space to the surrounding landscape in an unexpected way.

Location: Valence

GPS coordinates: 44.92918,4.88883

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:45