Charles de Gaulle Square

Place Charles de Gaulle, memory of the rebirth of Royan

Place Charles de Gaulle carries within it all the tragic history and the rebirth of Royan. It is here that the first Notre-Dame church once stood, before the destruction of the war. The Royan audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this memory-laden place, in the heart of the rebuilt city.

On the site of the first church

On this square once stood the first Notre-Dame church of Royan, destroyed during the bombings of January 1945 that ravaged the city. Today, Place Charles de Gaulle testifies to the transition from the old city to the rebuilt one. It embodies both the memory of the destruction and the impulse of rebirth that animated Royan in the post-war period.

What to see

The square, vast and central, is surrounded by reconstruction buildings and invites you to imagine pre-war Royan. Its history, between tragedy and renewal, makes it a place full of emotion. It is an essential stop to understand the singular destiny of the city, destroyed then rebuilt, and the attachment of its inhabitants to their city.

Practical information

Place Charles de Gaulle lies in the heart of Royan, reachable on foot. It is a public space open at all times, freely accessible and on the level. The shops around have their own hours; the square is a good landmark to explore the rebuilt city.

What was on Place Charles de Gaulle?

The first Notre-Dame church of Royan stood there, before being destroyed during the bombings of January 1945.

Why is Place Charles de Gaulle important?

Because it carries the memory of the destruction and the rebirth of Royan, on the site of the first Notre-Dame church.