Jean Bart Square

Place Jean Bart, a tribute to the corsair of Dunkirk

In the heart of Dunkirk, Place Jean Bart pays tribute to the most famous of the people of Dunkirk, the corsair Jean Bart. His statue dominates this lively public space, a landmark of the city. The Dunkirk audio-guided tour stops here to evoke the legendary figure of this sailor who entered the history of France.

The corsair who saved France from famine

The square bears the name of Jean Bart, a famous corsair who, in the seventeenth century, helped to bring France out of a great famine by bringing back a convoy of wheat. A hero of Dunkirk, he became a legendary figure of the French navy. His statue stands at the centre of the square, which is the beating heart of the city and one of its main meeting places.

What to see

The statue of Jean Bart, proudly standing at the centre of the square, is its highlight. All around, terraces, shops and façades enliven this central place of Dunkirk. It is an excellent starting point to explore the city, a stone's throw from the belfry and Saint-Éloi church, and to soak up the atmosphere of the city of the famous corsair.

Practical information

Place Jean Bart lies in the heart of central Dunkirk, reachable on foot. It is a public space open at all times, freely accessible and on the level. The terraces and shops that line it have their own hours; the square is an ideal landmark to begin the visit of the city.

Who was Jean Bart?

A famous corsair of Dunkirk who, in the seventeenth century, helped to save France from famine; his statue stands on the square that bears his name.

What is there to see on Place Jean Bart?

The statue of the corsair Jean Bart, at the centre of the square, as well as the terraces and façades that enliven this central place of Dunkirk.