The Admiral Gaspard de Coligny Monument, located at the chevet of the Protestant Temple of the Oratoire du Louvre, is a monumental ten‑metre high statue in white Carrara marble. Designed by Louis‑Henri‑Georges Scellier de Gisors and sculpted by Gustave Crauk in 1889, it was inaugurated on 17 July to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution and the Universal Exposition, symbolizing reconciliation between Catholics and Protestants.

It honours Gaspard II de Coligny (1519–1572), Admiral of France and Protestant leader, assassinated and thrown from a window during the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre near the Louvre, just steps from the monument’s location.

The site was chosen because it overlooks the area where Coligny once lived and died. The monument was funded by a national subscription organised by pastor Eugène Bersier, who brought together Protestants and Catholics in an ecumenical gesture under the Third Republic.

Mounted on a high pedestal, the statue portrays Coligny dressed in ceremonial attire with the Order of Saint‑Michael. His solemn, thoughtful expression reflects the inner turmoil he experienced before leading the Protestant armies. The sculptor captured this through the gesture of his right arm resting on his heart, symbolising reflection over violence .

At the base, an open Bible represents his Protestant faith. Two allegorical figures flank it: on the left (when facing) Patria holds a wreath labelled “Saint‑Quentin”; on the right Religion holds a martyr’s palm engraved with “1572,” the year of the massacre. Above the sculptural frame is Coligny’s motto “Je les éprouve tous” and his family crest: a crowned eagle.

Inscribed on the monument is Coligny’s testament: “I will willingly forget all things... provided that, in what concerns the glory of God and the public peace...” . A notable detail remains: the birth year engraved is wrongly given as 1517 instead of 1519, likely a symbolic nod to the onset of the Reformation .

The monument underwent restoration in 2004 and was refreshed again in 2019 to mark Coligny’s 500th birth anniversary, bringing renewed attention to its inscriptions and sculptural finesse .

What you can do
Visitors can admire the statue year‑round, free and at any time, through the gates of the Oratoire on rue de Rivoli. It’s a highlight in historical walking tours around the Louvre and the surrounding neighbourhood.

Atmosphere
The setting is dignified and introspective. Though in a busy urban area, the monument invites pause, reflection, and respect for Europe’s religious heritage.

Audience
History enthusiasts, art lovers, visitors to the Louvre area, Protestant faithful, and culturally curious tourists.

Anecdotes
Two Queens of the Netherlands, Wilhelmina and Juliana—descended from Coligny—visited the site in 1912 and 1972 to pay tribute to their ancestor.

At the time of its unveiling, some conservative Catholic presses criticised it as a political statement, reflecting the lingering sensitivities around the memory of Saint‑Bartholomew's Massacre.

Practical Info
The monument is always visible from the street, free of charge, open 24/7. There are no dedicated guided tours, but it is often included in walking itineraries tied to the Oratoire du Louvre. Restrooms and Wi‑Fi are available inside the neighbouring temple.