Square Maurice-Schwob

Square Maurice-Schwob is a garden park covering roughly 0.7 hectares situated along a cliff edge, combining regular pathways, seating areas, and trees in a structured layout. A steel staircase connects this space to the adjacent Miséry quarry garden, linking different elevation levels of the neighborhood.

The City of Nantes acquired this site in 1853 from the Lusançay estate and converted former workers' gardens into a public square under architect Étienne Coutan's direction. This transformation created a new focal point for the expanding neighborhood.

The park displays a sculpture called 'L'Épave' by Paul Auban from 1926, depicting a Breton mother grieving for her drowned son. This artwork shapes the emotional character of the space and connects local history to the Loire River nearby.

The square is accessible from multiple sides of the neighborhood and offers clear sightlines across the surroundings from its elevated position. It works well to visit any time of year, with open pathways and seating providing good orientation even in wet weather.

From its elevated vantage point, the square overlooks industrial landscapes and the Loire River, a view that architect Coutan deliberately incorporated into his original design. This perspective subtly ties the space to Nantes' industrial past.

Location: Nantes

Inception: September 27, 1933

Operator: Ville de Nantes

Opening Hours: January 15-March 19,October 23-November 17 08:45-18:00; March 20-October 22 08:45-19:30; November 18-January 14 08:45-17:00

Website: https://patrimonia.nantes.fr/home/decouvrir/themes-et-quartiers/square-maurice-schwob.html

GPS coordinates: 47.20113,-1.58120

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:42