Across the square, directly opposite the Prefecture, you’ll find the bust of José Frappa, a key figure in Saint-Étienne’s social and labor history. Frappa was a trade unionist and revolutionary activist deeply involved in the workers’ struggles of the early 20th century. He played a pivotal role in strikes demanding better working conditions, a fight that helped shape the city’s industrial identity. As a pioneer of the local labor movement, he is remembered today for his unwavering commitment to defending workers’ rights. Just across from him stands the Prefecture, a landmark of local administration and the symbol of the French state’s authority in Saint-Étienne. Its position facing Frappa’s bust perfectly captures the historic tension between the state and the labor movements that were such an important part of the city’s social history. Together, these two monuments serve as a powerful reminder of the fight for social justice and equality.