Equestrian statue of Louis XIV, Bronze sculpture at Promenade du Peyrou, France
The bronze equestrian statue of Louis XIV occupies the center of Peyrou Promenade, scaled to roughly twice the size of a real horse and rider. The figure sits atop a stone pedestal that forms the focal point of this grand baroque promenade.
The current sculpture was installed in 1838, replacing the original from 1718 that fell victim to revolutionary destruction in 1792. This replacement marked the return of royal monuments to French cities during the restoration period.
The mounted king represents royal authority overlooking the city, serving as a lasting symbol of Montpellier's connection to France's monarchy. Visitors encounter here a monument that has anchored the city's identity for nearly 200 years.
The monument is accessible year-round and photographs best in the morning when sunlight illuminates the bronze figure facing east. The promenade itself is flat and easy to walk across, with open access from all directions.
The pedestal bears a Latin inscription reading 'EVERTERAT FUROR, RESTITUIT PIETAS' carved during the 1814 foundation stone ceremony by the Count of Artois. These words translate to 'Fury destroyed it, Duty restored it' and speak directly to the political upheaval surrounding the monument.
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