Place de Gaulle

Place de Gaulle is the area that was formerly known as Place d'Armes. It was utilized as a military ground until the middle of the 19th century for the purpose of training and maneuvering by the soldiers of the Ajaccio garrison.

The Place de Gaulle, also known as the Place du Diamant, is the landmark that denotes the transition from the old town to the modern neighborhoods of Ajaccio. It has a square that itself is quite large in size. The statue depicting Napoleon and his four brothers as children serves as the focal point of the square.

It is an imposing sculpture that occupies most of the square's space. In 1865, the ceremony to inaugurate this monument took place.

If this ancient square's well-traveled paths could talk, they would have some fascinating stories to share about the area's rich past. A monument erected in honor of Napoleon I piques the curiosity not just of the local community but of people all over the world. So the authorities thought that the orientation should be chosen in the direction towards the sea, the horizon, and the future.

Therefore, Its orientation was changed in 1969 on the occasion of the new urban plan put in place for the bicentenary of Napoleon's birth.

What to do in Place de Gaulle?

• The bronze statue of Napoleon I on his horse and surrounded by all his brothers is a sight to behold. On the bronze is engraved: 'In memory of Napoleon I and his brothers, Corsica is grateful'. Superb work that symbolizes an entire empire, a work signed by sculptors Barry, Thomas, Petit and Maillet.
• After you've explored Place de Gaulle, head for some attractions nearby, like Musee Fesch, Ajaccio Cathedral, and Trottel Beach.
• During the Christmas season, the central area is embellished to resemble a scene from a wintertime fairytale. Skaters make a circle around the statue of Napoleon riding an equestrian mount. At Christmastime on the Place Charles de Gaulle, an ice skating rink has been erected for the past few years, and all around it are snack bars and little booths with Christmas decorations. Make sure to be present here during Christmas.