Le Peyrou, Montpellier’s favourite promenade

Thanks to its location and exceptional views, Place du Peyrou is one of Montpellier’s most emblematic landmarks. The last royal square to be built in France, it is a distinctive 3-hectare esplanade planted with trees, located on the outskirts of the Ecusson at its highest point.

A belvedere open to all horizons, it houses an equestrian statue of Louis XIV, completed by architect Jean Giral in 1774. The triumphal arch and water tower, extended by the aqueduct, are models of classical architecture.

In 1685, Louis XIV chose Montpellier as the site for an equestrian statue of himself. Building a royal square, the ultimate expression of the monarch’s glorious discourse, means creating a setting worthy of the sovereign’s statue. Earthworks and extension work began in 1689.

It wasn’t until 75 years later, under the reign of Louis XVI, in 1766, that embellishment work began. Completed in 1775, the Place Royale du Peyrou was considered one of the most beautiful squares in the kingdom, thanks to its location and exceptional views.