Coconut Square  Nouméa

Once a swamp, Place des Cocotiers was established in 1861 as Jardin de la Troupe. Today, this iconic Nouméa landmark is surrounded by shops and administrative buildings, including the town hall. The Celestial Fountain, located in the centre of the square, represents point 0, the starting point of New Caledonia’s road network. Although it underwent a number of transformations between 1980 and 1990, today it forms a homogeneous pedestrian ensemble and retains its different parts: the Place Feillet, centred around the bandstand with amphitheatrical seating; the Place Courbet, adorned with groves and petanque courts; the Place de la Marne, the active heart of the square with regular events; and the Place de la Paix, formerly known as Square Olry.

The famous Celestial Fountain in Nouméa’s Place des Cocotiers has a fascinating history. Céleste Mohamed, the 17-year-old daughter of two deportees, posed for sculptor Paul Mahoux. It was inaugurated in 1985. The bandstand is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It represents an important aspect of the town’s social and cultural life, with a space dedicated to music, the arts, and socialising. Lastly, Square Olry, renamed Place de la Paix in 2022, now houses the statue symbolising the handshake between Jean-Marie Tjibaou and Jacques Lafleur, two key figures in New Caledonian history.

A real hive of activity, the Place des Cocotiers calls for a leisurely stroll. Nearby, the Musée de la Ville focuses its exhibitions on the history of Nouméa. You’ll also find a host of cafés and snack bars. Shopping addicts will find a wide variety of boutiques. The Place des Cocotiers is sure to offer you a day of relaxation and sharing.