The Place Masséna is a centrally located square in Nice. The black and white pavement of the neoclassical square is bustling with activity.
The most important square of the city
Place Masséna, with its black-checkered pavement and reddish arcades, is a characteristic spot in the heart of Nice, and its design is very reminiscent of nearby Italy. The 19th-century neoclassical ochre buildings give the square a unique flair. Located at the southern end of the Jean Médecin shopping street, there is always a lot of hustle and bustle here. At the south and west ends are the Masséna Gardens and the Albert I Gardens, with their lawns that invite you to linger. A fountain guarded by bronze horse statues completes the ambience of the spacious square.
Lively hustle and bustle at any time of the year
Around the Place, there is always a row of jugglers or street artists and there is a lively hustle and bustle. On many occasions, small stands are set up and also in the winter time, the place is immersed in a contemplative atmosphere with a Christmas market and an ice skating rink. A particular highlight is the artwork "La Conversation" in the middle of the Place Masséna. In 2007, Spanish artist Jaume Plensa erected seven sculptures perched on nine-metre-high poles above the square to symbolise seven continents. At night, these figures are illuminated and change colors. So a visit in the dark evening hours can be a special experience!
Ideal for shopping lovers
Shopping lovers will also get their money's worth at Place Masséna. At the square, there is the big department store Galeries Lafayette that presents beside a huge perfume department also a lot of noble designer labels. Those who still do not have enough after a stroll through the Lafayette can stroll on the Avenue Jean Médecin. Here, the big shopping centre Nice Etoile with numerous boutiques and shops invites to an extended shopping tour.
The Place Masséna is very centrally located and Nice visitors will surely cross it more than once during their stay. The old town or the beach are only a stone's throw away from here.
