Victor Hugo Monument
About Victor Hugo Monument
This outdoor monument on Place Mélingue features three bronze bas-reliefs and a medallion honoring Victor Hugo's connection to Veules-les-Roses. The sculptures, created by renowned artists André-Joseph Allar, Louis-Ernest Barrias, and Denys Puech, were cast in 1902 and originally adorned a monument in Paris before being relocated here. Hugo visited the village four times between 1879 and 1884 to stay with his closest friend Paul Meurice, who owned a seaside villa. The bas-reliefs depict Hugo received at Parnassus by poets of all time, surrounded by characters from his famous novels including Quasimodo and Jean Valjean, and speaking at the National Assembly. The monument stands freely accessible on a charming village square, offering a peaceful spot to appreciate the literary legacy of France's greatest romantic writer.
Interesting Facts
On September 24, 1882, Victor Hugo hosted a banquet for the 100 poorest children of Veules-les-Roses, an event that was covered by the prestigious L'Illustration magazine. This was part of a charitable tradition Hugo began in 1862 during his exile in Guernsey, where he fed poor children every Monday at his Hauteville House.
The original Parisian monument from which these bronzes came was partly melted down by German forces during World War II occupation. These surviving fragments were saved and later deposited in Veules-les-Roses by the City of Paris to honor Hugo's personal connection to the village through his friendship with Paul Meurice.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Place Mélingue, 76980 Veules-les-Roses
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