In the heart of the historic centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Place Jules-Pellissier — often simply called Town Hall Square — serves as the true administrative, civic, and lively centre of the town. Larger and more open than some of the smaller nearby squares of the old village, it fully embodies the Provençal atmosphere with its plane trees, café terraces, and central role in everyday local life.

Located directly in front of the Hôtel de Ville de Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the square forms a broad pedestrian area surrounded by shops, cafés, and historic buildings. It is one of the main gathering and circulation points when exploring the old town.

A square born from the French Revolution

The present-day square occupies the site of the former gardens and courtyard of the Augustinian convent. Following the French Revolution, Church properties were confiscated and reorganised, allowing the creation of a new public square at the heart of the village.

The former convent was gradually transformed into the town hall during the early 19th century. Today, the Town Hall overlooks the square with its elegant façade, arcades, balcony, and clock tower topped with a wrought-iron bell structure typical of Provençal architecture.

The fountain and Provençal atmosphere

At the centre of the square stands the Fountain of the Dolphins, one of the site’s most recognisable features. Dating from the early 19th century, it reflects the urban redevelopment of the square during that period and follows the style of traditional Provençal fountains commonly found across southern France.

As in many Mediterranean towns, the fountain historically served practical, decorative, and symbolic purposes, marking the civic heart of the community.

Around it, the large plane trees provide welcome shade during the summer months, while café and restaurant terraces contribute to the constant activity of the square. Altogether, the setting offers a characteristic image of the Provençal art of living.

A lively and festive centre

Place Jules-Pellissier hosts many of the public events and festivities of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Markets, official ceremonies, concerts, traditional festivals, commemorations, and seasonal events regularly take place here throughout the year.

The large Provençal market held every Wednesday is especially lively, transforming the square and neighbouring streets into a bustling area filled with local produce, fabrics, and artisan goods.

A heritage crossroads

The square lies within one of the town’s densest heritage areas. Just a few steps away are the Collégiale Saint-Martin, the Hôtel de Sade, and several historic mansions such as the Hôtel Meyran de Lagoy.

This close concentration of monuments, shops, and public spaces perfectly illustrates the compact nature of Saint-Rémy’s historic centre.

Who was Jules Pellissier?

Place Jules-Pellissier commemorates Jules Pellissier (1810–1882), a physician, mayor, and respected public figure who played an important role in the civic life of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence during the 19th century. Serving as mayor on several occasions, he became one of the community’s most respected figures. The square that bears his name reflects the lasting memory of his contribution to local public life and development.

A place also connected to Van Gogh

The square also forms part of the Van Gogh Walk, which connects several locations in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence associated with the artist’s stay between 1889 and 1890. Interpretive panels installed along the route present reproductions of works painted during his time in the town and surrounding countryside.