About
Les Échelles de la Ville is an urban installation in Montpellier, in the Occitania region of southern France. Set on a public square at Place Paul Bec, it takes the form of a series of giant ladders, and it works both as a piece of public art and as a landmark in the city's architecture.
What to expect
The installation is best seen as an invitation to look at Montpellier differently. The oversized ladders rise into the city's surroundings and give the skyline and streetscape a playful, unexpected frame. Visitors tend to come for a short look and a photograph, though the setting rewards a slower walk around the structure to see how the view changes from each angle.
- A public, open-air artwork that can be seen at any time the square is accessible
- A landmark that suits a short stop rather than a long visit
- A good starting point for exploring the surrounding streets on foot
Around the installation
Place Paul Bec sits within Montpellier, a city known across France for its lively university life, its mix of historic and modern districts, and its warm southern climate. Combining a visit to the ladders with a stroll through nearby streets makes for a relaxed half-day, and it pairs naturally with a coffee or a meal in the area.
Because the installation is outdoors and free to view from the square, it is an easy addition to almost any itinerary. Those interested in contemporary public art or in unusual urban landmarks will likely find it the most rewarding part of the visit.