Colonne de la Grande Armée Guide
Colonne de la Grande Armée: A Napoleonic Monument with a View Guide
The Colonne de la Grande Armée, or the Column of the Grand Army, stands proudly overlooking Boulogne-sur-Mer, a testament to Napoleon Bonaparte's ambition and the might of his army. This imposing monument is more than just a historical landmark; it's a symbol of French military history and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the English Channel. A visit here is a journey back in time, allowing you to imagine the bustling activity of Napoleon's troops preparing for their (never realized) invasion of England. The column's history is deeply intertwined with Napoleon's plans to conquer Great Britain. Construction began in 1804 to commemorate the Grand Army stationed in Boulogne, poised to cross the Channel. However, the invasion never materialized, and the column's construction was interrupted. After Napoleon's defeat, the monument was repurposed to celebrate the restoration of the monarchy under Louis XVIII. The original statue of Napoleon was replaced with a fleur-de-lis, the symbol of the Bourbon dynasty. Later, under Louis-Philippe, a new statue of Napoleon, dressed as a Roman emperor, was placed atop the column, where it remains today. Today, visitors can climb the 263 steps to the top of the Colonne de la Grande Armée for unparalleled views of Boulogne-sur-Mer, the coastline, and even England on a clear day. Explore the museum at the base of the column, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to Napoleon's Grand Army and the history of the monument. The surrounding parkland provides a pleasant space for a stroll and a picnic. While Boulogne-sur-Mer is known for its seafood, the area around the column doesn't have specific culinary traditions directly linked to it. However, you can find excellent restaurants in the town center offering fresh catches and regional specialties.
Transportation
The Colonne de la Grande Armée is located a few kilometers outside the center of Boulogne-sur-Mer. The easiest way to reach it is by bus. Take Line F from the 'Place de France' bus stop in the city center. Get off at the 'Colonne' stop, which is right next to the monument. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or drive, with ample parking available near the column.