In Nice, the statue of Joan of Arc, even though it is under threat of being dismantled, was the focus of a tribute this Friday, on her feast day, 594 years after her death. Mayor Christian Estrosi used the event to defend this controversial work, which has unintentionally become a mirror of society.
In front of the Joan of Arc Church, designated a historical monument, the square takes on a new look this morning. Standing on its pedestal, the golden statue of the Maid of Orleans captures all the attention. Today is May 30th, the Feast of Saint Joan of Arc, and 594 years after her death, the people of Nice are here to pay tribute, gathered at the foot of the monumental sculpture that dominates the park.
In this solemn atmosphere, Christian Estrosi speaks: “This day is intended to thank the one for whom this work was designed.” A tribute, also, to those who enabled its creation: “I want to thank André Barthe, Prince Joachim Murat, and Gaël Nofri.” He takes the opportunity to remind everyone that “naturally, this statue is meant to stay.”
A work at the heart of tensions
But behind this ceremony, controversy is never far away. Because the statue, inaugurated in 2023, still remains subject to dispute. A court ruling demands its removal. Some also argue that Joan of Arc is not from Nice, that “Nice was not part of France in 1431”. Others, in the name of secularism, oppose the celebration of a saint in public space.
Christian Estrosi responds: “As if a saint couldn’t be a republican figure.” And he emphasizes: “Joan of Arc belongs to all French people. I won’t give her to one side or the other.” A phrase borrowed from Jacques Chirac, reiterated firmly: “I refuse to let her become the symbol of the far right, because that would mean they have won the war of ideas.”
A faithful reflection of France
The ceremony then takes on a tone of a unity declaration. “Despite all differences, France is united and unique.” For the mayor, Joan of Arc embodies more than history: she reflects our era, its divisions, and its debates. “We too often focus on what divides us,” Christian Estrosi observes. He adds: “Thanks to her sons and the blood shed, Nice became French between 1914 and 1918.” In his speech, the mayor also praises the Republic, “this model of living together”, and French art, citing “the great artists like the Missor workshop”, designer of the statue.
The ceremony then concludes. A wreath is laid at the foot of the statue by the Mayor. “Joan of Arc is a mirror,” asserts Christian Estrosi. “And the reflection she sends back depends on us. We must ensure it is the right one.”
