Majestic 17th-century mansions line the sides of the remarkable Canourgue Square, one of the city’s most resplendent plazas. A short walk uphill from the Place de la Comédie, the square provides wonderful views of the twin towers of the Saint Pierre Cathedral. Visit Canourgue Square and enjoy the tranquility amid the well-kept gardens and hedges of this historic piazza.
Stroll along the cobbled pathway that leads to the heart of the square to reach the central fountain. Admire this stunning centerpiece and gaze up at the sculpture crowning it. A closer look at the work of art reveals a set of unicorns tumbling over one another, while carrying a young child. Visit the plaza with a local tour guide to learn about the connection between the unicorn symbol and the military marshal Charles de Castries.
Villas dating back to the 1600s with traditional shutters and balconies run down the sloped road to the side of the plaza. Spot the towers and spires of the Saint Pierre Cathedral rising above the tops of the inclined mansions. Among the highlights lining the square is the Belleval House, which served as the city hall from 1916 to 1975.
Relax at a café under the shade of the trees. Enjoy a few glasses of regionally grown wine, with the unicorn sculpture in sight. Potted plants and hedges surround the fountain in the heart of this square. Note that it is free to enter the plaza, which remains open to the public at all times.
The Canourgue Square is in the northwestern part of the city center of Montpellier. Travel by train to the Gare Saint-Roch and walk northwest via the Place de la Comédie for about 15 minutes to reach the area. Once here, visit some of the neighboring sights, including the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, the Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier and La Promenade du Peyrou.
