War Memorial, Toulouse

War Memorial, Toulouse

The War Memorial in Toulouse is a significant historical and architectural monument built to honor soldiers from the region who participated in the First World War. Officially completed in 1928, the memorial was initiated with a design competition won by Camille Raynaud in 1920. The construction was a collaborative effort, involving Raynaud, Henri-Raphaël Moncassin, and André Abbal, under the architectural guidance of Léon Jaussely.

Located on the Forain-François-Verdier Alley, near the intersection with Metz Street (Rue de Metz), the monument is a prominent feature of the cityscape. It is designed as a triumphal arch, supported by eight tall stone columns. The archway leads up to a pediment that is engraved with the names of major battlefields from World War I. This feature symbolizes the contribution and sacrifices of the Haute-Garonne department's soldiers during the conflicts of the 20th century.

A notable aspect of the memorial is its decorative scheme, which includes several statues and bas-reliefs created by a team of three sculptors. These artworks celebrate the French troops' exceptional bravery and the historical significance of the Alsace-Lorraine region's return to France after being occupied by Germany. The inscriptions on the memorial do not list individual soldiers' names but rather focus on the collective memory and valor of the French military.

Additionally, the monument's location and integrity were recently affected by the construction of the François-Verdier station on line C of the Toulouse metro. In 2023, the memorial was temporarily moved 35 meters to accommodate construction activities. It was meticulously replaced in 2027-2028, ensuring its preservation and continued prominence in Toulouse's urban landscape.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Toulouse. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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War Memorial on Map

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20 m
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Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors
Sight Name: War Memorial
Sight Location: Toulouse, France (See walking tours in Toulouse)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Toulouse, France

Create Your Own Walk in Toulouse

Create Your Own Walk in Toulouse

Creating your own self-guided walk in Toulouse is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Toulouse Introduction Walking Tour

Toulouse Introduction Walking Tour

Known affectionately as "The Pink City" (La Ville Rose) due to the terracotta bricks used in many of its buildings, the capital of the Occitania region of France – Toulouse – offers a blend of historical intrigue and modern dynamism. Originally known as Tolosa (the meaning of the name is unknown), it was established as a military outpost by the Romans in the 2nd century BC.

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Toulouse Markets and Shopping Streets

Toulouse Markets and Shopping Streets

Like many other cities in France and Southern France in particular, Toulouse boasts a delightful array of shopping areas. At Galeries Lafayette, a renowned department store, you can find exclusive French items for sale - no problem; however, to discover some truly great bargains – from organic vegetables to antiques, – a visit to Toulouse's street markets is a must.

One of the most...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles
Architectural Jewels of Toulouse

Architectural Jewels of Toulouse

It doesn't take an architectural expert to appreciate the beauty of Toulouse's historic buildings. Walking the city's streets one can't help admiring the galore of ancient architecture which has earned Toulouse, since as early as the 16th century, the title of "the most beautiful city in France".

Once a powerful provincial capital, Toulouse utilized its prosperity,...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Historical Churches Tour

Historical Churches Tour

Toulouse's historical center is full of architectural marvels, many of which are churches. The variety of basilicas, cathedrals, and cloisters built in the city throughout the 11th-19th centuries is complemented by the richness of styles serving as a testament to both faith and craftsmanship.

The 12th-century Basilica of Saint Sernin is a masterpiece of Romanesque design. It's known...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles

Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip


Pub Crawl of Toulouse

Pub Crawl of Toulouse

There are some really great little pubs in Toulouse. This guide helps you find a few of the local favourites, one pint after the other. Discover good craic at Mulligans and The Killarney; be amazed at what's on tap at Bar l'Ancienne Belgique and Bar La Tireuse; and put the English back in...