Réduit Square

Place du Reduit

A stop on the Bayonne audio-guided tour, Place du Reduit is located where the city's two rivers meet, the Adour and the Nive. An imposing statue depicts Charles Lavigerie, one of Bayonne's great figures.

Charles Lavigerie and the Reduit fort

Born in 1825, Cardinal Charles Lavigerie is recognised in many countries for having fought against slavery in Africa. His statue, by Alexandre Falguiere, has adorned his native city since 1909. At the tip of the square, a monument recalls the presence of the former Reduit fort, designed by Vauban at the request of Louis XIV in the seventeenth century to strengthen the city's defences.

What to see

The square offers a fine view of the confluence of the Adour and the Nive, in the heart of Bayonne. Observe the statue of Lavigerie and the fort monument, witnesses to the military history and the great figures of the city.

Practical information

Place du Reduit is at the confluence of the Adour and the Nive, in the centre of Bayonne. Freely accessible, it can be discovered at any time.

Who does the statue on Place du Reduit represent ?

Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, born in Bayonne, recognised for his fight against slavery in Africa.

What was once on the square ?

The Reduit fort, a fortified structure designed by Vauban in the seventeenth century.