Peyrou

Peyrou is a toponym used in France to refer to several places, the most prominent being Place du Peyrou, a historic public square in Montpellier, in the Occitanie region. The name is tied to the city’s southern heritage and toponymy associated with historic urban development.

Place du Peyrou is a large rectangular esplanade at the western edge of Montpellier’s old town. It was laid out in the late 17th century as part of expansion under royal influence. The square is notable for its neoclassical layout and for its proximity to the Saint-Clément Aqueduct, which forms a scenic backdrop. A tall column bearing a statue of Louis XIV stands on the esplanade, marking the square’s royal associations. The site is a popular venue for promenades, markets, and public events, offering views across the city to the surrounding hills.

Beyond Montpellier, the name Peyrou appears in other French localities as a toponym for streets, districts, or small hamlets. The exact origin of the term varies, but in many cases it references historical connections to bridges or river approaches in local geography.