Square du General Charles de Gaulle (Charles-de-Gaulle Square), Toulouse

Square General Charles de Gaulle, nestled behind the Capitol in Toulouse, serves as a tribute to Charles de Gaulle, the founder of the Fifth Republic and its president from 1959 to 1969. This square, approximately 5000 square meters in size, is shaped like an irregular trapezoid and lies in the vibrant Capitole district.

Historically, the square emerged during the development of Alsace-Lorraine Street between 1873 and 1875, following the demolition of the Maison Commune. Initially named the Capitol, the square was later renamed in 1944 to honor General Charles de Gaulle after the liberation of Toulouse. The renaming reflected the city's deep ties with the Resistance and was formalized by the new municipality led by Raymond Badiou.

In the heart of the square, visitors can admire a central fountain and a striking metal statue dedicated to Jean Jaurès and "Maternité," crafted by Jean-Louis Toutain. The square is framed by several streets: Ernest-Roschach Street to the west, Lafayette Street to the north, and Poids-de-l'Huile Street to the south, with Alsace-Lorraine Street and the Capitole metro station (Metro line A) to the east.

Significant modifications have been made to the square over the years. In 1993, with the construction of the metro station, the square’s basin and alleys were recreated to match their original design, complete with a waterfall and rockery made of artificial stones. More recently, in 2010, an alley in the square was named Space of Secularism (Espace de la Laïcité) to mark the National Day of Secularism, a decision unveiled by the then-mayor, Pierre Cohen.

Despite initial controversies over its redesign, which included the mineralization of the garden and the felling of several trees, today Square General Charles de Gaulle remains a cherished part of Toulouse’s city center, offering a space of historical significance and serene beauty for residents and visitors alike.