Place du Bourg-de-Four (Bourg-de-Four Square), Geneva (must see)

"Place du Bourg-de-Four" is the French translation for the Latin term "Forum of the Burgundians." The reference is also to the Castle of Gomdebaud, king of the Burgundians, who died in 516. From its beginnings, the square has been a venue for markets and fairs. Today it is also a tourist magnet.

Unlike most city squares having a large open space, the Bourg-du-Four is shaped more like an hour-glass. The north side, dominated by the Palace of Justice, ultimately divides into Fountain Street (Rue de la Fontaine) and Verdaine Street (Rue Verdaine). Between these two is the Lutheran Church.

The south side looks more like a city square. The fountain and surrounding buildings form a harmonious grouping, bordering a small, tree-lined promenade and a minute square ("placette") at the start of the Town Hall Street (Rue de l'Hotel-de-Ville).

From the marble fountain, looking east, one can see the Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice). Facing the police station is Saint Peter's Cathedral, the largest church in Geneva. Around the square are gelaterias, cafes, book shops, galleries, bars and bistros. Once a cattle market, the square now offers high-end shopping.

Another point of interest is the Passage des Degres-de-Poules ("Chicken Coop Walkway"), a narrow passage on the north side. It is a staircase of 67 steps leading up to Saint Peter's Cathedral. It is a bit wider than two chickens walking abreast.