The Place des Héros is a remarkable historic square in Arras, also known as the “little square”, characterized by its mineral appearance and unique architecture, typical of old Dutch towns. It was named after the town’s resistance fighters who were shot during the Second World War. The Place des Héros, along with the neighboring Grand-Place, are Arras’ historic and main town squares. In this article, we invite you to discover the history and attractions of this emblematic site.
History of Place des Héros
The Place des Héros dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used as a marketplace and public gathering place. Over the centuries, the square has witnessed many significant events in the history of Arras, such as festivals, markets and fairs. Today, it is a symbol of the city’s history and heritage, and hosts cultural and festive events throughout the year.
Use Timescope to immerse yourself in virtual history
Heroes’ Square has its own Timescope, allowing tourists to note that two buildings, including a chapel, once stood on the cobbled square. The rediscovery was fortuitous. It was only after construction machinery had removed the historic cobblestones from Heroes’ Square during renovation work that archaeologists set to work, painstakingly excavating the ground. Gradually, the stone and brick structures emerged: the Maison Rouge, the Chapelle de la Sainte Chandelle and some of the aubettes were revealed. The Maison Rouge took its name from the use of red bricks in its construction. Built around 1430, this “house of justice” served as the seat of the police and the judiciary, as well as a place for stalls. Its exact dimensions have yet to be determined. Trade was important, with aubettes (small side-by-side cells) housing various trades whose foundations can still be clearly discerned today. These structures, linking the Maison Rouge to the Chapelle de la Sainte-Chandelle, were destroyed around 1520. What Timescope is : As the Arras Pays d’Artois agglomeration community boasts a rich historical heritage, an immersive film trail has been created to recreate three emblematic sites in three different eras: the Place des Héros in the Middle Ages (allowing visitors to see the traces of ancient buildings that were visible at the time, as seen above), the Vauban Citadel at the time of its construction, and a trench during the Great War. This experience is accessible free of charge 24/7 via Timescope kiosks set up in urban and rural areas, offering a truly moving experience for the people of Arras and tourists alike.
The town wished to recall the dimensions of the destroyed buildings, including the Chapelle de la Sainte Chandelle.
Architecture and features of Place des Héros
The mineral appearance and remarkable architecture of the Place des Héros make it a unique and unmissable place for visitors. The facades of the houses lining the square are adorned with sculptures and architectural details that bear witness to the Dutch influence on the region. Among the square’s most emblematic buildings are the Hôtel de Ville and its belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cobblestones, which o has already mentioned, are also very important to the overall aesthetic. In addition to its remarkable architectural heritage, Place des Héros is renowned for its Wednesday and Saturday morning markets, one of the finest in the Hauts-de-France region. The colorful stalls offer a wide variety of local produce, including fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats, fish and artisanal products. Visitors can discover the region’s gastronomic wealth and fill up on local flavors.
Visit Heroes’ Square
To discover the Place des Héros, take a stroll along the adjacent cobbled streets and admire the facades of the houses and monuments that make up the square. You can also enjoy the terraces of the cafés and restaurants lining the square, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historic site. Finally, don’t miss the cultural and festive events that take place here throughout the year, such as Christmas markets, concerts and temporary exhibitions, all of which contribute to making the Place des Héros a lively and animated place and the success of the town of Arras (the town center is considered the fourth liveliest in France).
Geographical location
The square is located in the heart of Arras, between the town hall and its belfry, and the rue de la Taillerie, which links it to the Grand-Place. Rectangular in shape, Place des Héros covers an area of around 7,500 square meters (length 123 meters, width 61 meters).
To conclude
The Place des Héros in Arras is a historic and emblematic site in the Hauts-de-France region, which is no match for Lille’s Grand Place, for example, offering a real trip back in time thanks to its unique architecture and atmosphere. Whether you’re a lover of history, architecture or simply looking for an enriching cultural experience, the Place des Héros is a must-see during your visit to Arras. Don’t hesitate to take the time to discover this historic gem and enjoy the many activities and events that take place there throughout the year.
R.C.
