Owl of Dijon

Historic Site in Dijon

Dijon Eglise Notre Dame De Dijon
CC BY-SA 2.0 / StéphaneMarie

La Chouette de Dijon is one of the must-see places in Dijon, a small yet immensely beloved carving that has grown into one of the city's most recognisable symbols. Found on a chapel buttress along the picturesque rue de la Chouette, this tiny sculpted bird—thought to be a mason's mark rather than a true owl—has inspired superstition, affection, and civic pride for centuries. Although the chapel dates from the late 15th or early 16th century, the carving has taken on a life of its own, becoming a focal point for visitors and locals who come to rub it with their left hand for good luck.

Over the years, the sculpture became smooth and almost featureless from constant touching. After suffering vandalism in January 2001, it was carefully restored using a mould created in 1988. Today, protected by surveillance and celebrated more than ever, it is often visited on walking tours of Dijon as a charming emblem woven into the city's cultural identity.

History and Significance of La Chouette de Dijon

La Chouette sits on the north side of Notre-Dame, on a small corner of a chapel buttress overlooking rue de la Chouette. Although commonly referred to as an owl, it likely represents a stonemason’s personal emblem. The carving is not connected to the church’s original medieval construction, as the chapel was built several centuries later, during the late 15th or early 16th century.

Generations of visitors rubbed the stone bird for luck, smoothing away its details until only a faint outline remained. This long-standing tradition nearly came to a tragic end on 5 January 2001, when the owl was severely damaged by hammer blows. Fortunately, an earlier mould made by a Louvre expert allowed the carving to be restored and reinstalled in February 2001. Reinaugurated on 12 May 2001, the owl now occupies an honoured place in the city’s heritage and remains under constant protection.

Things to See and Do in La Chouette de Dijon

Most visitors come to see the carving itself: a small, perched bird embedded low on the chapel buttress. Its modest size contrasts with its immense popularity. The charm lies not only in the sculpture but also in the tradition of making a wish while rubbing the owl with the left hand. The street surrounding it—rue de la Chouette—is one of the most atmospheric in Dijon, lined with timber-framed houses, boutiques, and cafés.

Beyond the carving, La Chouette inspired the Parcours de la Chouette (Owl Trail), created in 2001. This popular self-guided route leads visitors through the historic centre via 22 bronze plaques embedded in the pavement, each marked with an owl silhouette. It is an excellent way to explore Dijon's monuments, hidden corners, and architectural gems. The owl's influence even reaches into local sport, serving as the emblem of Dijon Football Côte d'Or, which further cements its status as a city-wide icon.

How to Get to La Chouette de Dijon

La Chouette is located on rue de la Chouette, just beside the north side of Notre-Dame in the heart of the old town. Travellers arriving by air generally use Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport, which offers extensive international and domestic connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dijon on Booking.com.

Dijon-Ville station, served by high-speed TGV lines from Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg, and other major cities, provides easy access to the historic centre. From the station, it is a pleasant walk or a short tram ride to Notre-Dame. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

The old town is largely pedestrian, but visitors arriving by car will find public car parks around the edges of the centre, offering convenient walking access to the owl. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting La Chouette de Dijon

  • Best time to visit La Chouette: Early morning for quiet photos, or late afternoon when the street is lively.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free; the carving is on a public street.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Refer to Dijon tourism for Parcours de la Chouette maps and updates.
  • How long to spend: 10 to 20 minutes, longer if following the Owl Trail.
  • Accessibility: The surrounding pedestrian area is generally accessible.
  • Facilities: Shops, cafés, and amenities nearby on rue de la Chouette.
  • Photography tip: Capture the owl with the timber-framed buildings in the background for a classic Dijon scene.
  • Guided tours: Many heritage tours stop here as part of the Notre-Dame district.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and wine bars line the surrounding streets.

Where to Stay close to La Chouette de Dijon

Staying near La Chouette places you in one of Dijon’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods. A luxurious option is Grand Hôtel La Cloche Dijon, a refined choice close to the pedestrian district. A charming alternative within walking distance is Hostellerie du Chapeau Rouge, known for its intimate style and gourmet dining. For a modern boutique stay nearby, Vertigo Hôtel offers contemporary comfort close to the old town.

Add a Is La Chouette de Dijon Worth Visiting?

Yes, La Chouette de Dijon is absolutely worth visiting. Small but full of history, mystery, and local tradition, it is one of the city's most beloved symbols. Whether you are making a wish, following the Owl Trail, or simply exploring the charming streets around Notre-Dame, the carving offers a delightful glimpse into Dijon's character and heritage.

FAQs for Visiting La Chouette de Dijon

Why do people rub the owl?
A long-standing belief says rubbing it with the left hand while making a wish brings good luck.

Is the owl original?
The current carving is a faithful restoration made in 2001 using a 1988 mould.

Where exactly is it located?
On a chapel buttress on the north side of Notre-Dame, along rue de la Chouette.

Is it part of the Owl Trail?
Yes, it is the inspiration for the Parcours de la Chouette and one of its key stops.

How long should I spend here?
Most visitors stay for 10–20 minutes, or longer if exploring nearby attractions.

Nearby Attractions to La Chouette de Dijon

The Owl of Dijon appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dijon!

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Visiting Owl of Dijon

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free

Address: The Owl of Dijon, Rue de la Chouette, Dijon, France
Dijon: 0 km

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