Landmark
Place Rapp et Monument General Rapp
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Place Rapp is a spacious, tree-lined square in the heart of Colmar, named after General Jean Rapp, a Napoleonic war hero born in the region. The square is dominated by an imposing bronze statue of the general on a stone pedestal, created by sculptor Auguste Bartholdi (who also designed the Statue of Liberty). The area is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike, with several restaurants and cafes offering outdoor seating where you can enjoy Alsatian cuisine while taking in the view. The square is also a hub for seasonal events, including Christmas markets and summer concerts. Lined with elegant 19th-century buildings, Place Rapp provides a pleasant contrast to Colmar's more famous medieval quarter, offering a glimpse into the city's 19th-century expansion. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break, with easy access to the nearby Unterlinden Museum and the Petite Venise district.
Don't miss
- Statue of General Rapp by Auguste Bartholdi
- Surrounding 19th-century architecture
- Outdoor cafes and restaurants
- Seasonal events and markets
- Proximity to Unterlinden Museum
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Place Rapp et Monument General Rapp
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Place Rapp et Monument General Rapp with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inColmar Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour4★ · 25 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Most bookedAlsace villages half day tour from Colmar4.8★ · 189 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$87 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleColmar Discovery Pack: self-guided tour + 6 local items4.7★ · 46 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$76 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- The square is busiest during lunch and dinner hours when cafe terraces are full.
- Best photo opportunities are in the morning when the light hits the statue.
- Try a tarte flambée or choucroute at one of the nearby restaurants.
- During December, the square hosts a section of Colmar's famous Christmas market.
A bit of history
Place Rapp was laid out in the 19th century and named after General Jean Rapp (1771–1821), a native of Colmar who served under Napoleon. The statue, erected in 1856, was designed by Bartholdi, who also created the Lion of Belfort and the Statue of Liberty.
Common questions
Is Place Rapp the same as Place de l'Ancienne Douane?
No, Place de l'Ancienne Douane is a different square near the Koïfhus. Place Rapp is about a 5-minute walk away.
Can I visit the statue up close?
Yes, the statue is freely accessible and you can walk right up to its base.
Are there public restrooms nearby?
Yes, there are public toilets near the square, but they may require a small fee.
Is the square open 24 hours?
Yes, it's a public square accessible at all times, though businesses have their own hours.
What events take place here?
The square hosts a Christmas market in December and occasional summer concerts.
Is parking available?
There is underground parking at Parking Rapp, directly beneath the square.
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