Toulouse's civic heart: a vast square with the 18th-century Capitole facade, town hall and Théâtre du Capitole.
The Place du Capitole is the main public square of Toulouse. Its long neoclassical facade, completed in 1750 to the design of Guillaume Cammas, hides the Hôtel de Ville and the Théâtre du Capitole, and the Donjon (a 16th-century tower) houses the tourist office. Inside, the Salle des Illustres is decorated with paintings of the late 19th century and is free to enter on most days. The floor of the square carries a large Occitan cross designed by Raymond Moretti, with the signs of the zodiac, and the arcades on the east side hold 1950s ceiling paintings of Toulouse history. Cafés line the square and a market takes place on Tuesday and Sunday mornings.
| Admission | Free (~$0) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Square open 24 hours; Capitole interior (Salle des Illustres, Henri-Martin rooms) usually open Mon-Sat to about 18:00 and Sunday afternoons, free |
| Typical visit | 30-60 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon, when the brick facade turns pink |
| Getting there | Metro line A to Capitole (also Tisséo bus stops on rue du Taur and rue d'Alsace-Lorraine) |
| Address | Place du Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, France |
Location
Place du Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, France
43.6044, 1.4434 View on map
Highlights
- Neoclassical Capitole facade of 1750
- Salle des Illustres with free access
- Occitan cross paving by Raymond Moretti
- Arcade ceiling paintings by Moretti
- Donjon tower with the tourist office
Tips for visiting
- Visit the Salle des Illustres on a weekday morning; it can close for weddings and official events.
- Look up under the east arcade for the painted ceilings.
- Terrace drinks on the square cost more than in side streets.
- Pick up a free city map at the tourist office in the Donjon.
When to visit
Late afternoon and early evening for warm light; early morning for an empty square.
Accessibility
The square is level and paved. The Capitole has lifts to the Salle des Illustres; the Donjon has stairs.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the Capitole free to enter?
The Salle des Illustres and the public rooms are generally free, but they close during civic ceremonies.
When is the market on the square?
A food and craft market normally runs on Tuesday and Sunday mornings, but dates should be confirmed with the tourist office on +33 5 17 42 31 31.