Place de la Motte, Limoges Travel Guide

Experience the vibrant heart of Limoges at Place de la Motte, a historic square with a bustling market and lively atmosphere.

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Place de la Motte

Place de la Motte is a bustling town square in Limoges, France, known for its historical significance and vibrant atmosphere. Once the site of a medieval castle, it now hosts a lively market and is surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a central gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Place de la Motte

Limoges, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the Les Halles Centrales market for local produce and a taste of Limoges' culinary scene.
Check out the trompe-l'oeil fresco on the square for a glimpse into the history of Limoges.
Explore the surrounding streets for shops, restaurants, and a feel for the local atmosphere.

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Explore Place de la Motte on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

Place de la Motte is located in the historic center of Limoges and is easily accessible by foot from most central locations. From the Gare de Limoges-Bénédictins, walk straight along Avenue de la Libération, then turn left onto Rue Jean Jaurès. Continue straight until you reach Place de la Motte. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Several bus and trolleybus lines serve Place de la Motte. You can take TCL lines 1, D1, 10, D10, 15, 21, 34, 35, 36, or 40 to the Place d'Aine or Beaupeyrat stop, which are both near the square. A single ticket costs around €1.60.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Limoges. A short trip from the train station or another central location to Place de la Motte will typically cost between €8 and €12. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Place de la Motte

Place de la Motte, located in the heart of Limoges, is a vibrant square with a rich history. In the Middle Ages, this was the site of the Château des Vicomtes de Limoges, built on a feudal motte, hence the square's name. The motte was an artificial mound crowned by a watchtower, serving as the residence of the viscount.Over the centuries, the area evolved. By the 13th century, the motte was transformed into ponds that supplied water to the city. Butchers settled near the ponds, using the water to dispose of waste. The ponds were drained in the late 18th century, and the area became a market. The covered market, Les Halles Centrales, was built in 1889 and is inspired by the architectural principles of Gustave Eiffel. The market is adorned with 328 high-fire porcelain panels.Today, Place de la Motte is one of the most animated places in Limoges. It hosts folk groups, associations, and markets. The square is surrounded by numerous shops and is a central hub for city life. A trompe-l'oeil fresco on one of the walls depicts the history of the area, including the feudal motte, the great fire of 1864, and Auguste Renoir, who was born in Limoges. Les Halles Centrales is a highlight, offering local products and a lively atmosphere.