La Place du Monstre The Monster by Xavier Veilhan

The must-see emblem of Place du Grand Marché in Tours

Get to the mythical Place du Grand Marché in the historic heart of Tours: between Les Halles and Place Plumereau, discover Xavier Veilhan’s famous Monstre, the 4-metre-high contemporary sculpture that has become the must-see emblem of the district.

A unique story in the heart of old Tours

Born of a joint desire by shopkeepers and local residents in 2004, the Monstre is part of a vast urban redevelopment project. This 4-metre contemporary statue, inspired by medieval heraldic figures, initially elicited mixed opinions among Tourangeaux.

The years have shaped its history: from festive events to daily gatherings, the sculpture has become an emotional landmark. “On se retrouve au Monstre” now echoes in every conversation, to the extent that the Place du Grand Marché is now naturally renamed“place du Monstre” by the locals.

Who made the Tours monster?

Meet Xavier Veilhan, the Lyon-based artist whose fertile imagination gave birth to this nearly 4-metre silver silhouette. His work, commissioned by the square’s shopkeepers, has been transforming the heart of old Tours since 2004. The result of a collaboration with sculptor Frédéric Pain, the Monstre boldly blends tradition and modernity in its clean lines. Today, this contemporary creation continues to fascinate young and old alike, testifying to Veilhan’s talent for reinventingart in the public space.

©Place du Monstre City of Tours|ADT Touraine - JC Coutand

Between Place Plumereau and Grand Marché

Wander under the tall trees of this pedestrian square, renovated in 2022, a real link between Les Halles and the famous Place Plumereau.The welcoming terraces invite you to take a refreshing break, while the Monstre watches over this haven of peace in the heart of the city of Tours.

Admire the facades of the half-timbered houses that frame the square, silent witnesses to centuries gone by. On market days, the entertainment is in full swing: the traditional garlic and basil fair is held here every 26 July, perpetuating a tradition that keeps the whole district buzzing.

Restaurants and bars around the Monstre

Enjoy a gourmet break in one of the many establishments lining the square. La Table du Grand Marché will delight you with its refined cuisine with local accents, while La Dentelle reinvents the tradition of Breton crêpes with a Touraine twist.

For lovers of a bistro atmosphere, push open the door of Dagobert: their natural wine lists and platters of PDO cheeses will delight your taste buds. At aperitif time, the terraces come alive and invite you to sample local specialities in a friendly atmosphere.

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A place that comes alive with the seasons

As the seasons change, the square comes alive with new energy. Spring sees the terraces blossom while street artists delight passers-by. In summer, music festivals resonate between the ancient facades, creating a unique festive atmosphere.

When autumn comes, the trees are adorned in gold and cultural events take up residence around the Monstre. On winter evenings, the square dons its festive clothes: the Christmas village unfurls its chalets, the Ferris wheel twinkles and the smell of mulled wine perfumes the air.

Ephemeral exhibitions, open-air concerts, craft markets: each month brings its share of surprises and events that keep the heart of this iconic Tours landmark beating.

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Ephemeral exhibitions, open-air concerts, craft markets: every month brings its share of surprises and events that keep the heart of this iconic Tours landmark beating.

When evening comes, the district takes on a festive air. Wine bars and cosy bistros welcome you to extend these moments of sharing over a glass of sparkling Vouvray or a homemade cocktail.