Place Carnot

Place Carnot

The Beaune audio-guided tour leads you to Place Carnot, the true beating heart of the town. It is here that the shopping lanes, lively terraces and strollers converge, in a square both historic and resolutely alive.

An old square

The square bears the name of the Carnot family, of whom Lazare Carnot, born in the region at Nolay in 1753, was one of the great figures of the French Revolution. The square itself is much older: since the Middle Ages, this central space has always been a place of exchange and meeting, where the grain, cloth or cattle markets were once held.

What there is to see

Even today, the Saturday morning market spreads its stalls on the square and around it, faithful to its long tradition. Lined with terraces, shops and fine facades, Place Carnot blends heritage and the art of living. It is the ideal place to sit down, taste Burgundian specialities and feel the convivial atmosphere of Beaune.

Practical information

Place Carnot can be seen freely, in the open air, in the heart of the historic centre of Beaune. It is accessible at any time. The market is held there on Saturday mornings; the many surrounding cafes, restaurants and shops follow their own hours, often extended in the tourist season.

Why is the square called Carnot ?

It bears the name of the Carnot family, of whom Lazare Carnot, born in Nolay in Burgundy, was a great figure of the French Revolution.

What happens on Place Carnot ?

The Saturday morning market spreads its stalls there, in a tradition going back to the Middle Ages; the square is also a place of terraces and shops.