Grand Place

The Grand-Place, beating heart of Lille

The Lille audio-guided tour takes you to the Grand-Place, where the heart of the city beats. The geographical, economic and social centre of Lille since the Middle Ages, it remains today the favourite meeting place of its inhabitants.

A living centre since the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, the square hosted fairs and markets, but also, more darkly, public executions, as was the custom at the time. Even though the centre of the city moved over the course of its expansion, the Grand-Place has remained the symbolic heart of Lille. Officially called Place du Général-de-Gaulle, in tribute to the statesman born in the city, it keeps its popular name of Grand-Place.

What there is to see

The square is lined with fine Flemish and classical façades, including the imposing building of the Voix du Nord and the nearby Vieille Bourse. At its centre stands the column of the Goddess, a commemorative monument of the city. Lively with its cafés, its shops and its flower market, the Grand-Place is the ideal starting point to discover old Lille.

Practical information

The Grand-Place is in the heart of the historic centre of Lille. It is a public space freely accessible at all hours and on the level, served by the metro. Lively day and night, it is an excellent starting point for the visit of the city.

What is the real name of the Grand-Place of Lille?

Officially, it is called Place du Général-de-Gaulle, but the people of Lille keep its popular name of Grand-Place.

What to see on the Grand-Place?

The Flemish façades, the Voix du Nord building, the nearby Vieille Bourse and the column of the Goddess at its centre.