Place de La Canourgue, Languedoc Travel Guide

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Discover Montpellier's oldest and most romantic square, a peaceful retreat with historical mansions and the iconic Unicorn Fountain.

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Place de La Canourgue

Place de la Canourgue, the oldest square in Montpellier, is a serene oasis of honey-colored mansions and shady trees. Once the site of grand but unrealized cathedral plans, it now offers a peaceful retreat with a glimpse into the city's aristocratic past.

A brief summary to Place de La Canourgue

1 Pl. de la Canourgue, Montpellier, 34000, FR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Place de La Canourgue.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter atmosphere and beautiful lighting for photography.
Don't miss the local cafes around the park for a taste of authentic Montpellier cuisine.
Check local event listings to find out if there are any cultural events or markets happening during your visit.
Bring a book or a sketchpad to fully enjoy the peaceful surroundings and artistic ambiance.

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Explore Place de La Canourgue on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Place de La Canourgue, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Place de la Canourgue is centrally located within Montpellier's Écusson (historic center) and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Place de la Comédie, walk north along Rue de la Loge, then turn left onto Rue Foch. Continue straight, and the square will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Orientation is aided by landmarks such as the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, visible from many points in the city center.
Public Transport

The closest tram stops to Place de la Canourgue are 'Gare Saint-Roch' (Lines 1, 2, 3, and 4) and 'Comédie' (Lines 1 and 2). From either stop, it's a short walk to the square (approximately 10-15 minutes). From Gare Saint-Roch, walk north along Rue de la République, then turn right onto Rue de l'Université. From Comédie, walk north along Rue de la Loge, then turn left onto Rue Foch. A single tram ticket costs €1.90. Tickets can be purchased from machines at the tram stops or via the M'Ticket TaM app.
Driving

Driving directly to Place de la Canourgue is not recommended due to its location within the pedestrianized Écusson. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding area, but it is often difficult to find and can be expensive. Several underground parking garages are located within a short walking distance, including Parking Arc de Triomphe and Parking Pitot. Expect to pay around €2.40 per hour or €20-25 for 24 hours of parking. Consider using a park-and-ride (P+Tram) facility outside the city center and taking the tram to avoid traffic and parking hassles.

Discover more about Place de La Canourgue

Place de la Canourgue, often described as the most beautiful and romantic square in Montpellier, holds the distinction of being the city's oldest public space. Its history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of Montpellier, reflecting its aristocratic past and architectural ambitions.In the 12th century, Guilhem VI, Lord of Montpellier, chose this elevated location for his residential palace and chapel, marking it as a significant site within the growing city. The name 'Canourgue' originates from the canons of the cathedral of Maguelone, who were housed here in the former seigneurial residence after the Guilhem family moved to a new palace in 1151. This transition cemented the area's importance as a religious and administrative center.During the Wars of Religion, the original church on the site, Sainte-Croix, was destroyed. In the 17th century, ambitious plans were drawn to rebuild the cathedral here, with designs for a massive structure stretching 94 meters long and 37 meters wide, crowned by a 46-meter dome. However, Cardinal Richelieu deemed the project too costly, halting construction in 1628 and leading to the restoration of the existing Saint-Pierre Cathedral instead. The visible foundations beneath the square serve as a reminder of this unfulfilled architectural vision.In 1665, the area was redeveloped, transforming it into one of the city's grandest squares. Mansions were constructed, including the Hôtel de Boulhaco (later the Hôtel Richer de Belleval), which was built in 1676 by Charles de Boulhaco, an advisor to the Court of Auditors. This building later served as Montpellier's City Hall from 1816 to 1975. Today, Place de la Canourgue is renowned for its serene atmosphere and architectural harmony. The square is lined with honey-colored stone facades, offering a cohesive and elegant aesthetic. Towering hackberry trees provide shade, creating a cool and inviting space for relaxation. The meticulously maintained gardens, complete with boxwood, enhance the square's tranquil ambiance.