The Place Victor Hugo is a jewel of the city of Arras, located in the Turenne district. Typical of the architecture of the 18th century, it was built on a swampy enclave called Pré Cagnon, where the Crinchon River flows. Located between the esplanade of the Citadel, the Schramm barracks and the medieval city wall, this Place Victor Hugo has the unique feature of being built in an octagonal shape and welcoming a flower market every May 1st.
In the center of the square is a fountain made by Félix Fruit (note the lion's heads that until recently spewed their jet of water) and an obelisk (the work of Posteau). The diameter of the square is 90 meters and the total area is 64 ares (6400 square meters). The Place Victor Hugo became quite a lively place in the lower town after the Revolution and in the 19th century. For example, a cattle market was created from 1821 and there are still sandstone posts with iron rings to tie up animals. The market survived until 1950, when it was transferred to the slaughterhouses.