Place Masséna

About

Place Masséna is the vibrant heart of Nice, a grand square that has defined the city’s identity since the mid-19th century. Designed by Joseph Vernier and named after Marshal André Masséna, it bridges Old Nice with the modern city, linking the Promenade des Anglais, Rue Masséna, and Avenue Jean Médecin. Its striking red ochre façades, inspired by Italian architecture, frame sweeping arcades and the famous black-and-white checkerboard paving. At its center stands the Fountain of the Sun, crowned by Apollo, surrounded by mythological figures. Today, Place Masséna is both a cultural stage and a social hub, hosting parades, concerts, and festivals, while offering a lively crossroads for locals and visitors. Restored for pedestrians with the tramway project, it remains a symbol of Mediterranean elegance and conviviality, where history and daily life meet in one of the Côte d’Azur’s most iconic squares.

Nice France

Location

Place Masséna is centrally located in the heart of Nice, acting as a vibrant link between the historic Old Town (Vieux-Nice) and the bustling Avenue Jean Médecin, the city’s main shopping street. Immediately adjacent, you’ll find the celebrated Promenade des Anglais and the Mediterranean Sea to the south, while the lush Albert I Garden is just steps away, featuring fountains and contemporary artworks. The square is bordered by striking red facades and boasts the Fountain of the Sun, with Apollo as its centerpiece. The pedestrian Rue Masséna with its shops and restaurants, the famous Galeries Lafayette department store, and iconic city parks like the Promenade du Paillon are all within a short walk, making Place Masséna an ideal starting point for exploring Nice’s historic and commercial landmarks.