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The place Dupuy and the Halle aux Grains in Toulouse.

Writer's picture: Franck BRUGUIEREFranck BRUGUIERE


This square emblematic of our city.

Not only is beautiful and very lively, but it is also where the city's auditorium is located.


  • A little history :



This square is adjacent of the Canal du Midi.

This is no coincidence.

Many fishermen used to be found there, but most importantly, it was a commercial port.

Indeed, the fame " Saint-Etienne " port , now remplaced by roads, used to see numerous barges carrying good pass through.

An intermediate quay remains, the " Saint-Sauveur port " , which in the main marina of Toulouse.


The neighborhood attracts shoppers various trades, students, and many cafés and restaurants.

This is still the case today.


This magnificent hexagonal building was constructed in 1861 by the architect " André Denat " .

Until the 1940s, it served as a covered market for grains and cereals.

In 1952, bleachers were built, and it became a performance hall hosting rock concerts, variety shows, circus, and boxing matches.


But the radical change occurred in 1970.

Indeed, from that date, its acoustics were improved.

It became the home of the " National Capitol Symphony Orchestra " .


In 2000, it underwent another renovation for improved audience comfort.

At that time, it also hosted operettas, comic operas, one-man-shows notably during the Toulouse Spring of laughter Festival.


  • The architecture of the Halle aux Grains :



This construction is traditional, with rows of pebbles between bricks.

Toady, this hall is recognized in France for its acoustic qualities, thanks to its numerous renovations.


In 1902, the building marred by two small buildings was converted to accommodate choirs.

The demand was significant in Toulouse, with no less than 24 choirs.


A evidence , the " Victoire de la Musique Classique " awards broadcast on television were held at the " Halle aux Grains " on February 13, 2008 and February 24, 2016.

The stage features movable platforms that allow for quick placement of a piano.



The auditorium has a seating capacity of 2 200 .

" The National Capitole Orchestra " is one of the most renowned in France, second only to Paris.

But the municipality of Toulouse has a project to built a much larger auditorium worthy of the city Orchestra.


  • The column of Dupuy :


On this square , it is imposing like that on " the Place de la Concorde " in Paris.

It was built between 1829 and 1832 by the architect " Urbain Vitry " .

It stands 20 meters tall and is dedicated to a Toulouse general highly esteemed by Napoleon, " Martin Dupuy " .

He was assassinated during the Cairo revolt, and on the monument are engraved the words of the Emperor : " I have lost a friend " .


However it was not always located at its current site.

Initially, between 1550 and 1829, it was situated at the Capitole, our city hall, on top of the tower Archives, now called the Donjon.

It was moved to its current location in 1832.



  • The statue of Dame TOLOSE :



This statue, at the very top of the column, was commissioned by the city administrators " Capitoules " and built by " Jean Rancy " .


It is a Renaissance style work inspired by ancient victories.

It symbolizes municipal power.

Starting from 1832, the statue brandished laurel wreaths in service to military glory became : " La Renommée " .


It was classified in 1842 and underwent numerous renovations due to weather damage.

Today, the original statue is located in the " Musée des Augustins " , at the top of the column, it is a replica.



The fountain at the base of the column consists of four seated bronze griffins that spout water from their mouths into the basin.


  • Dupuy Square : a lively place :


This place is in constant motion, no matter the time of day.

Thi is due to the numerous shops, bars, and restaurants located in this square.

On show night, the excitement reaches its peak, and everyone comes to have an aperitif before going to the performance.


A magnificent florist " Greg FLEURISTE ":



This florist with its storefront crowned with flowers and all these magnificent plants displayed on the sidewalk, immediately catches the eye.


Address : 28 des Frères Lions street 31 000 Toulouse.


The fishmonger " Maison Sampietro " :



Unfortunately, in our French cities, neighborhood fishmongers have largely disappeared .

During a trip I took to Naples in Italie, there were many.

This fishmonger is a very useful remnant of a bygone ear.


Address : 28 place Dupuy 31 000 Toulouse.


Le Café Authié An institution since 1882 :



I highly recommend it, as I often go there myself.

You will find classic cuisine made from fresh market produce.

Indeed, the decor will take you back in time.

It is very enjoyable to have an aperitif in the evening with friends, especially before a show.

For more details, I refer you to the post about the four restaurants I recommend in Toulouse.

Address : 25 place Dupuy 31 000 Toulouse.


The Café du commerce :



This restaurant and bar offers classic cuisine made with fresh ingredients.

It's also an institution.

I recommend ...I've already tried it.

It also has a very pleasant sunny terrace.


Address : 5 place Dupuy 31 000 Toulouse .


Bistrot " Galien " :



It's an organic farm-to-table restaurant.

A lovely small establishment with a beautiful terrace.

You will find classic cuisine here made with fresh ingredients.

A little typically Toulouse surprise : if you go to the basement to the restrooms, you will come across a small well well and a private room with terracotta brick walls.


The restaurant " Grain De Folie " :



An industrial-style chic restaurant with a terrace, offering seasonal dishes, tapas, and children's menus.

I've tried it and was impressed.

I recommend it to you.


Address :17 place Dupuy 31 000 Toulouse.


These you go, my friends, that's all, for today.

It's a square worth discovering for its architectural history and lively at atmosphere.

Enjoy reading about it.


Welcome in Toulouse.

The blog from Toulouse.

Greetings Franck.


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