Look to your right for a broad paved square centered on a bronze standing figure atop a tall stone pedestal... that is Place Jean-Bart.
This square began life as Place Royale, but Dunkirk changed its name after the statue of Jean Bart took command here in eighteen forty-five. Jean Bart, Dunkirk’s hometown corsair - meaning a sailor officially allowed by the crown to raid enemy ships - still stands like he’s about to give the harbor its marching orders.
The idea came from Benjamin Morel, a city councilor and merchant, who pushed the town to honor its sea hero in eighteen thirty-eight and then chaired the commission himself. He called on the sculptor David d’Angers. David turned him down twice... then accepted, and refused any payment, saying he was happy to devote his time to such a great historical figure. Architect Lebas joined in too, donating the pedestal drawings.
Now here’s the part I like: Dunkirk could not afford the bronze, the stone, or the labor, so the commission opened a public subscription. In two years, people raised thirty-three thousand francs - roughly the value of well over one hundred thousand euros today - including help from the national government and the department. When the statue was unveiled, the city celebrated for two full days. David missed the inauguration, but when he later arrived, Dunkirk welcomed him in procession, cheered him here, made him a citizen, and later named a street for him.
This square is open all day, every day... fitting for a local hero who never really clocks out. Stay with Jean Bart a moment, then continue when you’re ready.
