The great stone needle, so pivot instead of the Republic, actually comes from the Roman circus and date of the end of antiquity.
Discovered in the 14th century, it was not until the 17th century, the obelisk returns to his vocation as a solar symbol.
He was transported and installed, with many difficulties, to the newly built city hall.
With a fountain and a pool, it is a measure of harmony made by the order of the facades so diverse styles, lining the square.
It is also the best vantage point for sweeping view in a large pan, site of the Republic Square.