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Places of interest

Piazza Abbé Henry

4.4 · 682 reviews
Lively and communal
Piazza Abbé Henry, V.le Monte Bianco, 1, 11013 Courmayeur AO, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The square honors Abbé Joseph-Marie Henry, who founded the Chanousia Alpine Botanical Garden at the Little St Bernard Pass.

2

The square is situated at the intersection of the primary pedestrian path connecting the central church to the upper village areas.

3

It sits at an elevation of approximately 1,224 meters above sea level.

Overview

Piazza Abbé Henry is the primary pedestrian town square located in the heart of Courmayeur, Italy, serving as a central hub for visitors and locals. The square is named after Joseph-Marie Henry, a prominent priest, botanist, and mountaineer who significantly contributed to the exploration of the Mont Blanc massif. It serves as a visual gateway to the surrounding alpine peaks, including direct views toward the south face of Mont Blanc. The piazza is flanked by historic stone buildings, boutique shops, and several establishments offering regional Aosta Valley cuisine. It functions as the main meeting point for community events, local festivals, and seasonal markets. The architecture reflects traditional mountain construction with heavy use of stone, slate, and wood.

Photo spot

From the center of the square looking upward toward the prominent view of the Grandes Jorasses and the Mont Blanc massif.

Insider tips

Visit during the early evening for the 'passeggiata,' when the town comes alive with locals socialising before dinner.

Look for the local plaques or monuments detailing the area's mountaineering history found near the square's perimeter.

Wear comfortable, flat-soled walking shoes as the area features traditional uneven stone paving.

What to avoid

Avoid rushing through the square; it is designed for lingering and observing the mountain backdrop rather than quick transit.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful volume as this is a residential and commercial town center; refrain from climbing on any historical monuments.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon in summer to enjoy the transition of light on the mountain faces, or late morning in winter for bright snow views.
Address
Piazza Abbé Henry, V.le Monte Bianco, 1, 11013 Courmayeur AO, Italy
45.792, 6.972
Get directions
Details
Key FeaturesCentral pedestrian hub, mountain views, historic monument

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon in summer to enjoy the transition of light on the mountain faces, or late morning in winter for bright snow views..

From the center of the square looking upward toward the prominent view of the Grandes Jorasses and the Mont Blanc massif.

Close by you'll find Centro Storico di Courmayeur, Skyway Monte Bianco, Church of Saint Pantalon.