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Place François Rude: The Heart of Dijon

Experience the charm of Dijon at Place François Rude, a historic square with a lively atmosphere, iconic fountain, and delightful cafes.

Place François Rude, also known as Place du Bareuzai, is a lively square in the heart of Dijon's historic center. Named after sculptor François Rude, it features the iconic Bareuzai fountain with a statue of a grape harvester, symbolizing the region's winemaking heritage. Surrounded by half-timbered houses, cafes, and shops, it's a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Pl. du Bareuzai

  • Dijon, 21000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Explore the nearby streets for hidden cafes offering local specialties.
  • Check local event listings, as the square often hosts cultural activities and performances.
  • Take a stroll along Rue des Forges, a pedestrian street leading to Place François Rude, to admire the historic buildings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Dijon train station (Gare de Dijon), exit the station and head south on Rue de la Gare. Continue straight until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto Avenue de la Liberté. Follow this road to Rue de la Préfecture. Turn right on Rue de la Préfecture and continue until you reach Rue des Forges. Turn left onto Rue des Forges and follow the road as it curves left into Rue de la République. Continue walking straight until you reach Place du Bareuzai, where you will find Fontaine du Bareuzai. Expect a 20-25 minute walk.

  • Public Transport

    From the Dijon train station (Gare de Dijon), take Tram line T1 towards 'Dijon - Dijon Valmy'. Get off at the station 'Dijon - Place de la République'. From there, walk along Rue de la Liberté, then turn right onto Rue des Forges. Place François Rude will be on your left. A single tram fare is approximately €1.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Dijon, including at the train station. A taxi ride from the Dijon train station to Place François Rude typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Pl. du Bareuzai

Place François Rude, affectionately called Place du Bareuzai by locals, is a central square in Dijon, France, embodying the city's rich history and vibrant atmosphere. The square is named in honor of the Dijon-born sculptor François Rude (1784-1855). Established in 1904 after demolishing older structures, the square is known for its charming architecture, including medieval half-timbered houses and elegant stone facades. The central feature is the Fontaine du Bareuzai, created in 1904, topped with a bronze statue of a winegrower treading grapes. This statue gives the square its nickname, as "bareuzai" is a Burgundian term for someone with grape-stained legs from crushing grapes. Today, Place François Rude is a pedestrian zone and a popular spot for both tourists and locals. It hosts a market on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, adding to its lively atmosphere. The square is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, making it an ideal place to relax and soak in the city's energy. It also serves as a venue for concerts and events. Nearby attractions include the Church of Notre-Dame and the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy.

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