Place Notre Dame is one of the most lively and interesting areas of Grenoble’s Old Town. The square is defined by the massive limestone and brick tower of Grenoble Cathedral. This cathedral, together with St. Hugues Church and the ancient baptistery, form the square’s landmark cathedral complex. Sip a coffee at one of the pleasant cafés lining the square and watch the world go by or explore its fascinating historic buildings, many of which date back to the 12th century.
As you wander through the square, look for the Fontaine des Trois Ordres (Fountain of the Three Orders), which was carved by sculptor Henri Ding in the 19th century. The stone and bronze fountain depicts three men: a commoner, a member of the clergy and a nobleman. It was erected in 1897 in memory of the pre-revolutionary events of 1788.
Attached to the larger Grenoble Cathedral, you’ll find St. Hugues Church. It is part of a double church system with the cathedral, but the original purpose of this 13th-century church is not known. Explore the church’s interior. Be alert for its beautiful 18th-century painting The Washing of the Feet. The church also contains a notable baptismal font, which was used at the baptism of famed French novelist Stendhal.
Don’t miss one of the square’s most compelling attractions, the Musée de l’Ancien Évêché (Old Bishops’ Palace Museum). Home to Grenoble’s bishops until 1906, the museum now houses an excellent collection that traces Grenoble’s history from its earliest settlers up to the 20th century. Upstairs, find intricate mosaic floor panels, Bronze Age weapons, Roman artifacts and Neolithic jade jewellery.
Go to the museum’s basement, which takes visitors beneath Place Notre Dame. Here, you’ll see the remains of the city’s 3rd-century Roman town walls and a 4th-century baptistery (baptismal font), both of which are remarkably well preserved.
Reach Place Notre Dame by taking the tram or bus to the Notre Dame Museum stop. Parking is available at nearby Place Lavalette. Admission to the museum and other historic attractions is free.
