Audio GuideSquare of Saint-Jacques Tower

Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques is a historic urban garden that gently surrounds a towering monument with centuries of stories to tell. The tower itself, built between fifteen hundred nine and fifteen hundred twenty-three during the reign of King Francis the First, stands as the last witness to the former Church of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie. Originally linked to the bustling wholesale butchers of the nearby market, its elaborate Flamboyant Gothic decorations highlight a period of rich artistry.

Benjamin Montelly

For many years, the tower guided pilgrims traveling the Way of St. James to Santiago de Compostela. Over time, it has served varied roles, including being used as a shot tower in the early nineteenth century. During the Second Empire, renowned architect Théodore Ballu restored the tower by setting it on a raised pedestal and designing a charming park around it. This restoration helped maintain its original prominence amid the changing urban landscape.

Frank K

Today, surrounded by walking paths and benches shaded by tree canopies, visitors can appreciate both its architectural mastery and cultural significance. A statue of Saint James crowns the tower while a statue of Blaise Pascal at its base commemorates early scientific experiments on atmospheric pressure. Recognized as both a monument historique and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques continues to welcome visitors with its inviting atmosphere and historical allure.