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This cosmopolitan, Mediterranean city boasts a brilliant history, reflected in its exceptionally
 Monumental and much discussed quarter |
1 Boulevard Antigone (Rue Leon Blum) Montpellier 34000 France |
The success of this new district built during the 1980s remains much debated. The stone-colored concrete edifices are the work of the architect Ricardo Bofill and the whole development has been described as a parody of neo-classicism. The quarter is located just behind the 1960s Polygone shopping complex and was designed as an extension of the city center towards the river Lez. The central avenue with its series of pedestrianised squares leads down to the enormous semi-circle of the Esplanade de l'Europe. While at times, the quarter can resemble a gigantic tomb, it is in fact a very pleasant and lively area. One question remains unanswered. Designed for a Mediterranean city by an architect from Barcelona, why are there only a few balconies for the residents? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Gleadell |
 Photo: Aslak Raanes  |
 Photo: Chris Gleadell |
 Photo: Dr Daniel Mesquita |
 Photo: Julian Barrera |
 Photo: kafeole |
 Photo: Vincent Schmitt |
 Photo: Lauren Fichtel |
 Photo: Michael Höllen |
 Photo: margaret |
 Photo: KrisAHB |
 Photo: .urbanman. |
 Photo: Jack R. Johanson |
 Photo: Gudrun Kristin |
 France's oldest botanical garden |
163, rue Auguste-Broussonnet Montpellier 34000 France +33 467 63 4322 |
This garden was created in 1593. Today, the garden is a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding metropolis. It contains a wide variety of both indigenous and exotic species, as well as several trees that date back to when the garden was founded. The paths intertwine on different levels, and the garden contains several small follies, canals, grottoes and many busts of bearded botanists. Other features of this beautiful garden include an Orangery, tropical greenhouses, a bamboo garden, rock gardens and even a small duck pond. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: magali_giaume |
 Photo: mishka1224 |
 Photo: Virtual Artroom |
 Photo: Michael J Steele |
 Photo: Meikina Poppen |
 Photo: Meikina Poppen |
 Photo: RV |
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A small resort for a pleasant day out |
Carnon Montpellier 34280 France |
While the architecture may be less original than elsewhere, the small size and layout of this seaside town 13 kilometres from Montpellier prevents one from feeling oppressed by the concrete blocks that prevail. At the centre of the town, the small modern port is surrounded by cafés and games of Pétanque (bowls). From here one can easily reach the beaches to the east of the town that extend towards those of the Petit and Grand Travers. Towards evening, the lights of the fairground draw people towards the big wheel which offers an unequalled view over the surrounding coast and lagoons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kiflex |
 Photo: neocorsten |
 Photo: laurentlecoutre |
 Photo: Kiflex |
 Photo: Thomas Eduardo Correa |
 Photo: Pierre LANNES |
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Oasis of tranquility |
Esplanade Charles-De-Gaulle Boulevard Sarrail Montpellier 34000 France |
This wide promenade extends from the Place de la Comédie up to the rose-coloured Corum building. Trees and fountains welcome those seeking to escape the summer heat or bustle of the city centre. The far end of the esplanade looks out across the northern district of the city and the stairs leading up to the roof of the Corum offer an even wider panorama. On the west side of the esplanade is the Musée Fabre while to the east is the museum's pavillion and the Champ de Mars gardens - within this space are several contemporary statues (notably Baldini's Le Vent) as well as classical ones. The mini-train and horse-drawn carriages also use the esplanade as their point of departure for tours of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Niels de Rooij |
 Photo: kafeole |
 Photo: Carla Englander |
 Photo: Marisa Tam |
 Photo: Daniel Schuettpelz |
 Photo: Bruno VALASSE |
 Photo: Ben Whitnall |
 Photo: Dan Forys |
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A modern church in a new district |
rue Léon Blum Antigone Montpellier 34000 France +33 467 65 6400 |
The first church bearing this name was built at the end of the 19th century and served until 1941 as the chapel of the Orphanage Dom Bosco. The parish church was subsequently demolished in 1986 and replaced by the current modern building during the construction of the new quarter of Antigone. Built in the same coloured concrete that characterises the whole of the district, a simple cross and bell mark the entrance to the church. In contrast to the solid, monotone exterior the church interior is dominated by the swirling colours of stained glass windows. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A palace without a role ? |
Rue Foch Montpellier 34000 France |
The building whose Corinthian columns face out on to the Avenue Foch was completed in 1853. The palace occupies a site long associated with power and justice. In the 12th century Guilhem VI built his castle on the site to ensure his rule over a rebellious city. During the 16th century the castle housed the Présidial and the site also housed the Imperial court following the French revolution. Most of the functions of the building were recently transferred to the new Palais de Justice by the sides of the Promenade de Peyrou. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Rivier |
 Photo: Remy Overkempe |
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A panoramic walkway |
1 La Promenade de Peyrou Montpellier 34000 France |
This long, raised promontory extends out from the city centre towards the Arceaux district. From this high point the view extends from the Mediterranean to Pic St Loup and beyond towards the gorges of the Herault to the north of the city. A historic site from where the canons of Louis XIII bombarded the city during the siege of 1622, the Peyrou was also a place of execution during the revolution: the guillotine replacing the statue of Louis XIV. Today the site is much calmer and enhanced by continually changing flower beds and majestic magnolias. A perfect spot for a summer stroll beneath the shade of the many trees while admiring the swooping flight of martins. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dr Daniel Mesquita |
 Photo: MonsieurJC |
 Photo: Mike Higgins |
 Photo: Michael Stainthorpe |
 Photo: Pillot |
 Photo: Mike Higgins |
 Photo: david gonneau |
 Photo: christophe bernard |
 Photo: Julian Barrera |
 Photo: Steffen Hudemann |
 Photo: Niels de Rooij |
 Photo: Sarah Levantine |
 Photo: Grindaizer |
 Photo: Rob Walpole |
 Photo: Aurora Fdz.Abelleira |
 Photo: mireille duval |
 Photo: Anamaria IONITA |
 Photo: Claudio Gonzalez |
 Photo: Stella Solaris |
 Photo: Beatriz Chaim |
 Photo: Mitch Jones |
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Montpellier's main square |
Place 53 Montpellier 34000 France +33 467 60 6060 |
Situated between the train station, the historic city centre and the Polygone shopping centre, this immense, pedestrianised square is the heart and soul of Montpellier. Deriving its name from the first theatre built in the 18th century on the site of what is now the Opéra, this expansive square is the site of major open-air shows and daily street entertainment. At the centre of the square, beneath the handsome facades of the surrounding 19th century buildings, is the fountain of the Three Graces. Guided tours are available for EUR5.9 adults; EUR3.8 children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Victor Morell |
 Photo: IgorAE |
 Photo: SullenGirl |
 Photo: el chico nico |
 Photo: Christian Keller |
 Photo: ET d'Orion |
 Photo: IgorAE |
 Photo: Craig Wyzik |
 Photo: Craig Wyzik |
 Photo: clement2 |
 Photo: Joe Onorato |
 Photo: Daniel T. Pyne |
 Photo: Danielle Young |
 Photo: Philainos |
 Photo: Maria Luque |
 Photo: K.Suzuki |
 Photo: MagIcReBirth |
 Photo: Lance Schneider |
 Photo: Jean-Luc Henry |
 Photo: UL FCPE Rueil |
 Photo: Barbara Bonati G. |
 Photo: mareta68 |
 Photo: Tim Rowan |
 Photo: Marco Capecchi |
 Photo: ivypecanha |
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Art gallery in a former church |
2, rue Philippy Montpellier 34000 France +33 467 60 8242 |
The soaring steeple of the church of Saint Anne is one of the most visible landmarks of Montpellier. Situated in a pedestrianized zone of the city centre, the church is no longer used for religious worship and today houses a city art gallery which regularly exhibits the work of artists from Montpellier and elsewhere. The artwork tends to be contemporary, including painting, photography and sculpture. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: magali_giaume |
 Photo: clement2 |
 Photo: Pierre Claveirole |