A real place of social life, the fraternity circle was a place of sociability, a sort of "club". There were several "circles" of this type, restricted to men. A place to have a drink, to talk politics and to play cards.
Did you noticed ? The Place de la République fountain has moved ! It was originally built close to the Town hall in 19th century. After the Second World War, the fontain has been desctructed and rebuilt on the center of the Place de la République and bring to the area its current harmony.