Charles de Gaulle Esplanade

Built in the second half of the 16th century, the Charles de Gaulle esplanade was initially designed as a place for artillery exercises.  It was only in the 19th century that the esplanade was developed into a popular walking area for the people of Nîmes, with tree beds, flowers and balustrades to make it even more pleasant. The monumental fountain at its centre was added in 1851. It represents Nîmes through the statue of a woman overlooking four other figures. These are allegories of the region’s four most iconic rivers: the Rhône, the Gardon, the Nemausa Spring and the Eure fountain. Look closely at what the large statue is wearing on its head… Yes, you’re looking at the Maison Carrée in Nîmes! What could be more fitting to represent the city that has been dubbed The French Rome? This magnificent fountain, which adorns one of the busiest squares in Nîmes, was designed by James Pradier! If you continue a little further in the direction of the arena, you’ll pass another landmark of the city. I’m talking about that huge bull statue. Inaugurated in 2018 by Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier, it is a clear reminder of Nîmes’ historic attachment to bullfighting. The sculpture is known as Taureau, which translates to “bull”, and was designed by Georgian sculptor Djoti Bjalava.