Champ de Mars Square

The “Champ de Mars” Square, in the heart of Valence is the city’s main plaza. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, as it offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Ardèche mountains on the right. It’s here, on this large square, that Valence’s annual music festival, known as the “Festival sur le Champ!” is hosted in July. It features French and international artists of varied musical styles. The event, which attracts over 35,000 spectators each year, has been completely free of charge since its creation in 1973, when the first summer festivals were hosted in the city. They used to take place in Jouvet Park. In 1998, these small festivities became a real musical event, with increasingly more stages and artists, and in 2015, the festival was moved to the Champ de Mars Square, to welcome even more people. Access is still free today. Anyhow, take the time to wander around this emblematic Valence landmark, and in particular to admire the view that unfolds in front of you, behind the stand. The Champ de Mars square was created in 1773 as a promenade for the people of Valence, who wanted to relax just a few steps away from the streets of the city center. Originally called the Promenade de Beauregard, it was soon renamed the Champ de Mars because of the military parades held there. Throughout the 19th century, it hosted cultural and sporting events, exhibitions and many other activities. It’s the favorite gathering place for local residents! From the very beginning, it featured a bandstand in the middle, which we’ll talk about in the next audio guide. On the right, on its far end, it also features a large statue of General Championnet from Valence, which was a major figure during the French Revolution. He became involved in the revolutionary movement, and in the National Guard from its inception. Despite his young age, he quickly became one of the Grand Generals of the First Republic in 1795. That’s why his statue, designed in 1848 by Victor Sappey, is showcased in Valence’s main square. It underwent a major refurbishment in 2001, giving it its current contemporary appearance. If you’re lucky enough to have a clear sky today, you’ll have a great view from the belvedere in front of you. But in the meantime, let’s take a closer look at the bandstand.