Centenary Monument

The Centenary Monument in Nouméa is a prominent historical landmark inaugurated in 1953 to celebrate one hundred years of French presence in New Caledonia. It specifically commemorates the actions of Rear Admiral Febvrier-Despointes, who officially claimed the archipelago for France on September 24, 1853. Located near the scenic Baie de l'Orphelinat, the monument's architectural style reflects the formal and minimalist aesthetics of the mid-20th century. Beyond marking the act of annexation, the structure serves to honor the French pioneers and early settlers whose efforts shaped the territory's infrastructure and society during its first century under French rule. Today, the monument remains a central site for official commemorations and public holidays, representing the historical bond between mainland France and this Pacific territory. For visitors, the monument has a quiet space for reflection along Nouméa's coastline, with excellent views of the harbor and the city's evolving urban landscape.

Nearby cities

Nouméa

Nouméa is the capital and largest city of New Caledonia, situated on a peninsula in the southwest of the main island.

Lemon Bay

Baie des Citrons is a popular neighborhood in Nouméa featuring a sheltered bay ideal for swimming.

Vallée du Tir

Vallée du Tir is a popular and historical district of Nouméa, located near the harbor.

Vallée des Colons

Vallée des Colons is a historical residential district in Nouméa with many traditional colonial-style houses.

Anse Vata

Anse Vata is the tourist heart of Nouméa, characterized by hotels, restaurants, and a long beach.

East Vallée des Colons

East Vallée des Colons is the extension of the historical district towards the hills of Nouméa.

Dumbéa

Dumbéa is a rapidly growing suburb of Nouméa and part of the Great Nouméa metropolitan area.

La Conception

La Conception is a mission village in Mont-Dore with a significant religious history.

Boulari

Boulari is the administrative center of the Mont-Dore commune, situated on a picturesque bay.

Thio

Thio is considered the cradle of nickel mining in New Caledonia, located on the southeast coast.

Païta

Païta is located west of Nouméa and hosts the territory's primary international airport.

Païta Pioneer District

Païta is known for its history as the first major settlement outside Nouméa.

Magenta

Magenta is a district of Nouméa that hosts the territory's domestic airport.

Rivière-Salée

Rivière-Salée is a large residential district in northern Nouméa, named after the local 'salty river'.

La Foa

La Foa is an agricultural center located in the central-western part of Grande Terre.

History & landmarks

Nouméa City Hall

The city hall of Nouméa is housed in a prominent building located at the edge of the Place des Cocotiers.

Old Gaston-Bourret Hospital

The original hospital building in central Nouméa is a significant example of colonial public architecture.

Old Nouméa Market

The old market building near Port Moselle is a colorful place where local products are sold.

More places

Doniambo

Doniambo is the industrial heart of Nouméa, home to the massive SLN nickel smelter.

Ducos

Ducos is the primary industrial and commercial zone of Nouméa, located on its own peninsula.

Artillerie Bridge

This bridge in Nouméa connects the city center with the Artillerie peninsula, crossing the harbor arm.

Historic Noumea Wharf

The spot where the first settlers and goods arrived, marking the beginning of Nouméa's modern urban development.

Nouméa Old City Hall

A beautiful colonial building on the edge of Place des Cocotiers, which formerly housed the City Hall and is now the City Museum.

Museum of New Caledonia

The museum houses the world's most significant collection of Kanak art and Oceanic ethnography.

Volunteers Quay

The quay in Nouméa from which the Pacific Battalion volunteers departed in 1941 to fight for Free France.

Bernheim Library

A magnificent colonial-style building in Nouméa, inaugurated in 1901.