Place Ducale

Twin sister of the Place des Vosges in Paris, the Place Ducale is an architectural gem of the early 17th century, symbolizing the city of Charleville-Mezieres as it is today. This Place was constructed thanks to the dreams of an Italian prince Charles de Gonzague, passionate about architecture. Composed of 24 houses in golden stone and red brick, covered in Fumay slate known to be one of the finest slates in the world; the Place Ducale in its Renaissance style, is certainly the most beautiful square Louis XIII of France. The Musée de l’Ardenne has chosen this symbolic place for its scenery. A shopping arcade invites residents of Charleville-Mezieres and tourists to stroll or to go shopping. City guided tours are offered in summer by the tourist office. The World Festival of Puppet Theatre also takes place every September of every year on the Place Ducale.