Place du Martroi Guide
The Heart of Orléans: Where History and Modernity Meet Guide
Welcome to Place du Martroi, the central square of Orléans and a vibrant hub of activity. This expansive plaza is more than just a meeting point; it's a place steeped in history, a stage for events, and a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of this charming French city. Dominated by a magnificent equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, Place du Martroi offers a glimpse into the soul of Orléans. The history of Place du Martroi is intertwined with the story of Joan of Arc. It was here, in 1429, that she led the French troops to victory, lifting the siege of Orléans and changing the course of the Hundred Years' War. The square has been a witness to countless historical events, from royal processions to revolutionary gatherings. The current statue of Joan of Arc, a prominent landmark, commemorates her pivotal role in the city's liberation. Visitors to Place du Martroi can enjoy a variety of activities. Take a leisurely stroll around the square, admiring the architecture and the impressive statue. Relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the perimeter, savoring a coffee or a traditional French meal while people-watching. The square also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including markets, concerts, and festivals, making it a lively and engaging destination. While not specifically known for a unique culinary tradition tied solely to the square, you'll find many restaurants offering regional specialties like Loire Valley wines and dishes featuring local produce.
Transportation
Place du Martroi is easily accessible by tram. Take Tram A or B and get off at the 'Martroi' stop. Several bus lines also serve the square, including lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200. Check local schedules for specific routes and times.