Simone Veil Square

Right now, just to your right, you’re about to pass by Simone Veil Square. One of France’s most iconic public figures, Simone Veil has given her name to parks, schools, streets, buildings—and of course, city squares—across the country. A true symbol of women’s rights, her life and legacy have become an essential part of French history, told in countless books and remembered with deep admiration. When you step out of Nancy’s train station, this is likely one of the first places that catches your eye. The square itself dates back to 1859, and was originally named “Place de la Gare,” simply reflecting its location near the station. In 1877, following the death of French statesman Adolphe Thiers, it was renamed “Place Thiers.” Over the years, it became a busy hub, surrounded by shops and hotels. In 1879, a statue of Thiers was even erected here, portraying him as a noble figure and celebrated as the “liberator of the territory,” in reference to the return of regions occupied by German forces after the Franco-Prussian War. However, almost a century later, in 1970, the square—still known as Place Thiers—underwent major redevelopment. If you’re wondering where that statue went, don’t bother looking for it—it was removed in 1975 and has been kept in storage at the municipal technical center ever since. Though, the square is still easy to spot from a distance, thanks to the iconic towers built here in the 1970s. Then, in 2013, a new phase of renovation began. As part of the “Nancy Grand Cœur” project, a direct underground passage was built, linking the square’s parking area to the train station—very convenient for travelers. Finally, in 2018, the square was officially renamed in honor of Simone Veil, who had passed away the previous year. The new name was inaugurated on July 17, 2018—her birthday—in a ceremony attended by her eldest son, Jean Veil.