Liberty Square

Welcome to Liberty Square, Brest’s central square! But it hasn’t always been so. As a matter of fact, it was outside the city walls up until the end of the 19th century. It wasn’t until 1889 that the city gates were torn down, making way for bigger squares in the heart of town. Yet, Liberty Square was designed by architect Jean-Baptiste Mathon much later, after World War II, which left the city in ruins. Inspired by French royal squares, Mathon created a central square that was to become the hub of the city. Architect Bernard Huet gave it its current layout in 1996, with an emphasis on commerce. The square now connects to Rue de Siam and Rue Jean Jaurès, Brest’s main shopping streets, and is lined with several restaurants, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. It’s a far cry from the square it once was in the 18th century. Back then, it was much smaller and used as a talus slope along the fortifications. As you can imagine, it held little charm for the people of Brest as such! Today, it’s a popular venue for events, as well as year-round attractions like the Christmas market, the Brest Music Festival and various other Breton celebrations.