Place du Capitole (Capitol Square), Toulouse

Capitol Square (Place du Capitole) in Toulouse stands as a vibrant and historic epicenter in the city's heart. This grand square, central to Toulouse's social and cultural life, serves as a primary gathering spot, a starting point for city exploration, and a venue for various events. Known for its Neoclassical elegance, the square has been a fixture for approximately 800 years, with its current prominent feature, the Capitole building, gracing its space since the mid-18th century. The Capitole's stunning 128-meter facade is a popular backdrop for photography and social media, reflecting its status as a key Toulouse landmark.

The Capitol Square is not just about its majestic main building. The western side features canopied terraces under Byzantine arches reminiscent of Saint Mark's Square in Venice. To the north, the medieval Bull Street (Rue du Taur) buzzes with a lively mix of South American bistros and quirky shops and even hosts an open-air cinema, leading to the Basilica of Saint-Sernin with its distinctive octagonal bell tower.

Visitors can explore the Capitole's interior, particularly the Salle des Illustres, adorned with some of Toulouse’s finest 19th-century paintings. The entrance features a grand staircase, an opulent chandelier, and a patterned mosaic floor, enhancing the grandeur of the experience. The square is also known for its eclectic daily market, where vendors sell everything from flowing summer dresses and vintage vinyl records to practical items like straw hats and sunglasses.

The square's site is steeped in history, reportedly the location of the martyrdom of Saint Saturninus in 257 CE. While the existing Capitole building dates back to the 18th century, the area's significance extends to Roman times, previously centered around the nearby square of Carmes. The 1990s pedestrianization transformed Capitol Square into a thriving tourist attraction, cementing its place as Toulouse’s focal point of tourism and local life.