Louis Armstrong park and Congo Square

Among all the jazz landmarks in New Orleans, perhaps nothing is more famous than Louis Armstrong Park which is located off Rampart Street, almost adjacent to the French Quarter. It is a large 32-acre park with rolling lawns, trees, and lovely paths. The park itself is named after the most famous Jazz exponent Louis Armstrong, and within it is Congo Square, which is historical. New Orleans’ history, and thereby its identity with jazz goes back a couple of centuries. The most widely believed theory refers to the culture of the slaves that came from Africa. Each of them had their own style of music, and it all gelled to form a unique style that came to be known as jazz. Alarmed that the gatherings could become rebellious, the French banned street-side practice and designated one area, which was christened Congo Square. This then led to one of the most famous music revolutions in global history leading to the popularisation of jazz. The park has sculptures of Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and tributes to jazz players and bands. Various festivals and concerts are also held here.