VICTOR HUGO SQUARE
A charming 18th century square, one of the few octagonal squares in Europe, with a remarkable obelisk.
Designed by the architect Beffara, this charming square is one of the few octagonal squares in Europe. It dates from the 18th century. Its creation reveals the search for a certain aestheticism specific to this period. It was from 1750 that this marshy area was drained to create a new district, a real little Saint-Germain on the scale of Arras. The very strict regulations are the result of a brand new urban thinking. The surrounding streets intersect at right angles; each facade must resemble its neighbour to establish harmony. The obelisk is the central point of this square where the first public fountain in Arras stood. From 1850 and for about a hundred years, the place was used as a cattle market. From this period, the sandstone plots with rings to which the cattle were tied are still standing. It is a real pleasure to shop outdoors, in a unique architectural setting. This tradition of exchange and trade inherited from the Middle Ages is punctuated by festive events: andouillette festival, Christmas market, burning of the belfry. You will love the positive vibes transmitted by the Place d'Arras.