Did Charles de Gaulle ever imagine a bust of himself gracing the bustling Place du Général-de-Gaulle? This square, the historic heart of Lille, has borne witness to centuries of history, long before it carried his name. Originally a marshy area traversed by the Deûle River, it transformed into a vibrant marketplace in the 13th century. Imagine the cacophony of merchants hawking their wares, the ground slowly rising with embankments to combat the persistent floods. By the 17th century, the construction of the Vieille Bourse, the old stock exchange, divided the square, creating the Grand’Place and the Petite-Place. This Grand’Place, now the Place du Général-de-Gaulle, has been a stage for both celebration and tragedy. Here, in 1792, Theobald de Dillon met a fiery end, a victim of revolutionary fervor. Yet, the square also hosted joyous festivals, like the Fête de l’Épinette, with its equestrian jousts and lively crowds. In 1944, after the liberation of Lille, the square was renamed to honor its native son, Charles de Gaulle. Today, as you stand before his bust, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. From marketplace to grand plaza, the Place du Général-de-Gaulle continues to be a vital center of Lille, a testament to its enduring spirit. The square stands as a symbol of resilience, echoing the very qualities de Gaulle embodied.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to