Woinic, a colossus weighing 50 tonnes and standing 8 metres tall, has become a true symbol of the Ardennes region, combining industrial heritage, local pride and monumental art.
Located in the immediate vicinity of the A34 motorway, On the Ardennes rest area in Saulces-Monclin, Woinic welcomes travellers and visitors from their arrival in the Ardennes from Reims. Monumental, unusual and photogenic, it stands out as an unmissable stop for young and old alike.
Woinic, a true icon, at the gateway to the Ardennes
Woinic sits proudly on The Ardennes motorway rest area, located in Saulces-Monclin, between Charleville-Mézières and Rethel. Easily accessible, the site allows for a safe stop to admire the artwork.take photos and discover one of the department's most famous landmarks.
Its strategic location makes it a tourist gateway to the Ardennes, ideal for setting the tone for an authentic, natural and characterful territory.
A steel giant born from Ardennes know-how
Woinic is not just a monumental sculpture, it is also A tribute to the iron and steel history of the Ardennes. The work was created by Éric Sleziak, an artist and foundry worker from Bogny-sur-Meuse in the Ardennes.
Made of steel, the boar measures 13 meters long, 5 meters wide, 10 meters high and weighs nearly 50 tons. 11 years and 12000 hours of work. A technical and artistic feat that perfectly illustrates local industrial know-how, revisited through artistic creation.
A memorable arrival
Woinic's installation at its current site was an event in itself. On 08/08/2008, a symbolic day, its arrival was marked by a large festive parade, bringing together residents, curious onlookers and enthusiasts. Transporting it from Bogny-sur-Meuse to Saulces-Monclin and erecting this sculpture of such magnitude was a powerful moment, which remains etched in the collective memory of the Ardennes. Since then, every August 8th, the people of the Ardennes celebrate this anniversary with friendly festivities. around Woinic : festive times, surprises for visitors, moments of sharing around the Ardennes identity.
These annual events strengthen the link between the monument, the inhabitants and the visitors, making Woinic much more than a sculpture: a true character of the territory.
F.A.Q
1- Where is Woinic?
Woinic is located at the Saulces-Monclin motorway rest area, along the A34, between Charleville-Mézières and Rethel. The site is easily accessible and allows for a quick and safe stop.
2- Why is Woinic famous?
Woinic is famous because he is recognized as the largest wild boar in the world. Monumental and unusual, he has become one of the most iconic tourist symbols of the Ardennes.
3- Who created Woinic?
Woinic was created by Éric Sleziak, an artist and foundryman from the Ardennes region, originally from Bogny-sur-Meuse, showcasing local industrial and artistic know-how.
4- What material is Woinic made of?
The sculpture is entirely made of steel, a material emblematic of the iron and steel history of the Ardennes.
5- What is Woinic's height and weight?
Woinic measures 13 meters long, 5 meters wide, 10 meters high and weighs nearly 50 tons, making it a monumental work unique in the world.
6- Where does the name "Woinic" come from?
Woinic comes from the first names of the parents of the sculptor of Woinic, Eric Sléziak.
Woinic is a contraction of Woidouche (nickname given to his father of Polish origin) and Nicolle, his mother's first name.
7- When did Woinic arrive at its current site?
Woinic was installed on the Saulces-Monclin area on 08/08/2008, during a large festive parade through the Ardennes from the Meuse valley.
8- Can Woinic be visited for free?
Yes, access to the Woinic website is completely free. It is visible all year round, day and night.
Autoroute A34 – Sortie 14 08270 SAULCES MONCLIN
