Place des Trois Fontanot

In the heart of Nanterre, Place des Trois Fontanot stands as a quiet tribute to courage and sacrifice. This unassuming square holds a powerful story. It’s a story of three Italian cousins who defied fascism and found a new home in France, only to make the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. Place des Trois Fontanot honors Nérone, Spartaco, and Jacques Fontanot. They fled Mussolini’s Italy and settled in Nanterre. They joined the French Resistance, fighting against the Nazi occupation. Their bravery came at a high cost. Nérone was executed in 1943. Jacques fell in battle in 1944. Their cousin, Spartaco, was part of the Manouchian Group, a resistance group comprised mainly of immigrants. This group carried out numerous acts of sabotage against the Nazis. Spartaco’s story is particularly poignant. He was one of the twenty-three members, twenty of whom were foreigners, captured and featured on the infamous “Affiche Rouge” – a propaganda poster designed to demonize the Resistance. Spartaco, along with the others, was executed at Mont-Valérien in 1944. Place des Trois Fontanot is more than just a square. It’s a symbol of the international spirit of the Resistance. It serves as a reminder of the diverse individuals, many of them immigrants, who fought for France’s liberation. The sacrifices made by the Fontanot cousins and so many others resonate deeply in this quiet corner of Nanterre. The next time you find yourself at Place des Trois Fontanot, take a moment to reflect on their story. It’s a story of courage, resilience, and the enduring fight for freedom.