セリー＝マニヴァルでののおすすめグラベルライド

In the heart of the Compiègne forest, the Armistice Glade marks the place where the armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, and then that of June 22, 1940. The site today includes the memorial with the “Armistice Wagon” (recreated car), the statue of Marshal Foch and the Alsace-Lorraine monument.

Very peaceful

Intermediate

The square itself houses a statue of Joan of Arc, a tribute to the city's historical connection to this iconic figure. The Town Hall, with its rich history and stunning architecture, continues to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the past while remaining a vibrant part of Compiègne's present.

The architecture of the town hall is a true feast for the eyes. The central structure is dominated by a tall bell tower, flanked by two turrets connected by a decorative railing. This imposing façade, 47 meters high and 24 meters wide, is decorated with striking Gothic elements such as pinnacles and basket arches. The large niche now houses a high relief depicting the equestrian statue of Louis XII. It is an original creation from 1869 by the sculptor Henri-Alfred Jacquemart in the realistic style so prevalent at the time. However, contrary to the usual appearance of equestrian statues during the reign of Louis XII, Henri-Alfred Jacquemart chose not to build a horse walking "à l'amble," that is, with both straight legs raised simultaneously. On October 12, 1530, a clock was placed on the summit of the bell tower. From that time on, every quarter of an hour, she animated three wooden jaquemarts with bell hammers. The Compiègneis quickly gave them three nicknames corresponding to the enemies of the time: Langlois for the English, Flandrin for the Flemish, and Lansquenet for the Germans. Even today, they chant the life of the city by "punching the time," that is, by striking their hammer to strike the hours.

A village of character located in the heart of the forest, which offers a pleasant and exotic stopover on several tours crossing the Compiègne forest.

Gravel course, excellent condition required

Anecdote: A bitter historical turning point occurred in 1940, when Adolf Hitler chose the exact same spot to sign the French surrender to Nazi Germany — in the same train car. He literally reenacted the 1918 scene, but with the roles reversed. Shortly afterwards, he had the car shipped to Berlin as a trophy. The site was partly destroyed, but was redeveloped as a memorial site after the war.