1852 historical map of Loire Inferieure, France, showcasing Muscadet wine region with decorative engravings and regional history

Pierre Cambronne

Pierre Cambronne Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Nantes

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the vibrant city of Nantes, France, the Pierre Cambronne monument within Cours Cambronne is a captivating blend of history, neoclassical architecture, and urban vitality. Honoring General Pierre Cambronne—a famed Napoleonic hero celebrated for his courage at Waterloo—this grand promenade not only commemorates French military heritage but also serves as a cherished green oasis and social hub in central Nantes. This comprehensive guide explores the monument’s historical background, architectural features, visitor logistics (including visiting hours, ticketing, and accessibility), and its ongoing significance in the cultural life of Nantes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a curious traveler, the Cours Cambronne and its iconic statue are essential stops on any Nantes itinerary. For further details and cultural context, see Le Voyage à Nantes and Nantes Patrimonia.

Napoleon I leaving the island of Elba painting in 1836

Portrait of General Pierre Cambronne in 1816

Illustration page from tome 1 of the illustrated popular dictionary by Edmond Alonnier and Joseph Décembre

Atlas page from the Illustrated National Atlas of France's 86 Departments and Possessions showing detailed map of Loire-Inférieure region with routes, railways and canals

Portrait of French General Pierre Cambronne in uniform with Legion of Honour cross

Portrait of General Cambronne in naval uniform

Portrait of French General Pierre Cambronne

Portrait of Brigadier General Pierre Jacques Étienne Cambronne

Portrait of Pierre Cambronne lithograph on chine collé paper

Portrait of Pierre Cambronne lithograph on paper from early 19th century

Portrait of Pierre Cambronne lithograph on paper

Hand-colored lithographic portrait of General Pierre Cambronne from 1834

Baron Pierre-Jacques-Etienne Cambronn Russian military encyclopedia 1911-1915 illustration

Portraits of 7 men used for illustrations of military encyclopedia articles published in Saint Petersburg 1911-1915

Historical Background: General Pierre Cambronne

Pierre Jacques Étienne Cambronne (1770–1842) was born near Nantes and rose to prominence as a general during the Napoleonic Wars. Originally set for a commercial career, he joined the military in 1791 amidst the turbulence of the French Revolution. His exceptional leadership and bravery were demonstrated in battles at Zurich, Austerlitz, Jena, and, most famously, at Waterloo. During Waterloo, Cambronne became a symbol of French resistance—his reputed defiant response “Merde!” to the English demand for surrender has become legendary, as has the phrase “La Garde meurt mais ne se rend pas” (“The Guard dies but does not surrender”), although Cambronne himself humorously denied uttering the latter (levoyageanantes.fr; Alain Barre). After Waterloo, Cambronne returned to Nantes and is commemorated as a symbol of local pride and national valor.

The Pierre Cambronne Monument and Cours Cambronne

Neoclassical Promenade and Statue

Cours Cambronne is a grand neoclassical promenade, stretching approximately 180 meters in length and 50 meters in width, flanked by elegant, symmetrical buildings designed by Mathurin Crucy between the late 18th and early 19th centuries (Wikipedia; Le Voyage à Nantes). At its heart stands the bronze statue of General Cambronne, sculpted by Jean-Baptiste Joseph Debay in 1848, capturing the General in a determined pose with Napoleonic symbols. The statue is both a local landmark and a focal point for civic pride.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Cours Cambronne is a public space open year-round. Seasonal opening and closing times are as follows (Le Voyage à Nantes):
- 15 January – 19 March: 8:45 am – 6:00 pm
- 20 March – 14 May: 8:45 am – 7:30 pm
- 15 May – 3 September: 8:45 am – 11:00 pm
- 4 September – 22 October: 8:45 am – 7:30 pm
- 23 October – 17 November: 8:45 am – 6:00 pm
- 18 November – 14 January: 8:45 am – 5:00 pm
- Closed on 25 December, 1 January, and 1 May
Tickets: Entry is free; no tickets are required.

Accessibility and Facilities

Accessibility: The promenade is fully accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, with flat, paved paths.
Facilities: Benches, shaded lawns, and a historic Wallace fountain for potable water are available. Public restrooms and a variety of cafés and shops are located nearby.
Transportation: Easily accessible by tram and bus (nearest stops: Médiathèque, Copernic – Musées, Delorme). Multiple self-service bike stations and parking garages are available in the vicinity (Le Voyage à Nantes).

Guided Tours and Events

While there are no dedicated guided tours solely for Cours Cambronne, many city walking tours and heritage routes include the promenade as a highlight. The square also occasionally hosts cultural events and temporary art installations, especially during the annual “Le Voyage à Nantes” festival (Voyage Tips).

Architectural and Urban Significance

Neoclassical Ensemble

Cours Cambronne exemplifies neoclassical urbanism with its uniform facades, Ionic columns, and elegant symmetry. The surrounding mansions were designed for Nantes’ elite, reflecting both prosperity and the Enlightenment ideals of harmony and order. Sixteen of these buildings are listed as historic monuments (Wikipedia).

Landscape Architecture

The promenade’s design features rows of linden and magnolia trees, manicured lawns, and geometric flowerbeds, offering a tranquil city retreat. Its green axis connects Place Graslin to the Quai de la Fosse, integrating Cours Cambronne into the heart of Nantes’ pedestrian network.

Public Art

The central statue of General Cambronne, with its martial iconography, anchors the space. Nearby, the Wallace fountain—designed by Nantes-born Charles-Auguste Lebourg—adds historical charm (Wikipedia).

Cours Cambronne was conceived as a promenade for the city’s bourgeoisie and continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors. It is popular for leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation, set amid rich architectural heritage. The square’s ongoing use for public life and cultural events reinforces its status as a living piece of Nantes’ identity (MonNuage; Le Voyage à Nantes).

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer provide lush greenery and blooming gardens. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and a quieter experience.
Nearby Attractions: Within easy walking distance are Nantes Cathedral, Château des ducs de Bretagne, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, Place Graslin, and Passage Pommeraye (Megan Starr).
Café and Shopping: The area is surrounded by boutique shops and cafés, ideal for a break or souvenir shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need a ticket to visit Cours Cambronne or the Cambronne statue?
A: No, access is free and open to the public.

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Hours vary by season, generally from 8:45 am until evening. Closed on 25 December, 1 January, and 1 May.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the promenade is fully accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Many city tours include Cours Cambronne, but there are no regular tours dedicated solely to the promenade.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Spring and summer, or early morning/late afternoon for the best atmosphere and photos.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Take the tram or bus to Médiathèque, Copernic – Musées, or Delorme, all a short walk from the square.

Preservation and Contemporary Relevance

Cours Cambronne’s architecture and gardens are under heritage protection, with regular maintenance and restoration funded by the city (Metropole Nantes). The square’s continued role as a public promenade, venue for cultural events, and green space attests to its enduring importance in Nantes’ urban life.

Plan Your Visit

Enhance your exploration of Cours Cambronne and Nantes by downloading the Audiala app for guided audio tours and up-to-date event information. Visit Le Voyage à Nantes and Nantes Patrimonia for further details, maps, and recommended walking routes.

Contact the Nantes Tourism Office:
Address: 9 Rue des États, 44000 Nantes, France
Phone: +33 (0)2 72 64 04 79
Opening hours: 7 days a week from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm in peak season

Interactive map of Cours Cambronne

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

The Pierre Cambronne monument and Cours Cambronne in Nantes offer an immersive experience of French history, urban elegance, and vibrant local life. The statue of General Cambronne stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, while the neoclassical promenade invites visitors to enjoy its harmonious architecture, lush greenery, and lively urban atmosphere. Free entry, central location, wheelchair accessibility, and proximity to other must-see sites make it a highlight of any Nantes visit. For up-to-date guides and audio tours, download the Audiala app, and explore Metropole Nantes and Le Voyage à Nantes for additional insights.