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Monument

Jean Bart Square

Dunkerque, Opal Coast

About this place

Located in the heart of the city, Place Jean Bart—formerly known as Place Royale—is at the intersection of Boulevard Alexandre III, Boulevard Sainte Barbe, and Rue Clémenceau. In the center of this square stands a massive bronze statue erected in 1845, the work of David d’Angers. It depicts our hero Jean Bart as a privateer in the act of boarding an enemy ship, sword in hand, pointing toward England.

Born in Dunkirk in 1650 to a family of sailors and the grandson of Admiral Jacobsen—nicknamed “the Fox of the Seas”—Jean Bart distinguished himself through his courage and skill. His squadron captured 386 ships, not counting those sunk, set ablaze, or ransomed.

In 1694, Jean Bart’s reputation spread throughout France following the Battle of Texel: as famine had struck France, Jean Bart was tasked with recovering the goods extorted by Dutch privateers, a mission he successfully accomplished. His triumphant return is commemorated by the stained-glass window in City Hall. In this way, he saved France from famine. This feat earned him the esteem of Louis XIV, who ennobled him; he became Chevalier Bart and was also appointed commander of the Dunkirk navy.

Jean Bart died of pneumonia at the age of 52 while inspecting a 70-gun ship built in Le Havre in Dunkirk; he is buried in the choir of Saint Eloi Church. It is his statue that made the square famous; this statue is honored during the carnival by the “masquelours,” who kneel before it in memory of the privateer.

What to do nearby?

Upcoming events in Dunkerque.

Culture 1 August → 30 September

Traditional Shipbuilding on the Opal Coast

Dunkerque

Traditional shipbuilding from the Opal Coast awaits you in Dunkirk on August 1, 2026. This exhibition immerses you in the world of traditional boatbuilding along our coastline, particularly the flobart and the dundee. You’ll discover the different stages of building a boat, from design to launch. The exhibition offers you the opportunity to explore the skills and techniques used by boatbuilders on the Opal Coast. This will give you a deeper understanding of our region’s history and culture. This cultural event is a unique experience not to be missed by enthusiasts of maritime history and local heritage.
Culture 1 August → 30 September

Shipyards: A Photographic Archive of Dunkirk's Industrial History

Dunkerque

Shipyards are an important part of the past and present of the Port of Dunkirk. The exhibition “Shipyards: Photographic Archives of Dunkirk’s Industrial History” brings together photographs from the museum’s collections and highlights several major shipyards: Ziegler, Ateliers et Chantiers de France, and Béliard & Crighton. The exhibition continues with contemporary photographs taken during the restoration of the three-masted ship Duchesse Anne at the Damen shipyard.
category.Découverte 6 August

Walking Tour of the Port

Dunkerque

Walking Tour of the Port On August 6, 2026, explore the port of Dunkirk on foot with this 2.5-hour guided tour. The 6.3-kilometer route takes you through the East Port, offering impressive views of port activity. You’ll pass close by the Trystram and Watier locks, walk alongside the Risban Lighthouse, and pass in front of the Damen floating dock. This walking tour will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Port of Dunkirk. Admission fee applies; reservations required.

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Bergues Belfry

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Temple Tax

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