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Place de la Bourse: Bordeaux's Architectural Gem

Discover Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux: a symbol of elegance, history, and architectural beauty, featuring the mesmerizing Miroir d'Eau.

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The Place de la Bourse, a symbol of Bordeaux, France, stands as a testament to 18th-century neoclassical architecture. This iconic square, with its elegant facades and the mesmerizing Miroir d'Eau (water mirror), attracts visitors from around the globe.

A brief summary to Place de la Bourse

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • Take photos of the Miroir d'Eau, especially on sunny days, to capture the reflections.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the Musée National des Douanes and the historic city center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Place de la Bourse is located in the heart of Bordeaux, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Grand Théâtre, walk along Cours du Chapeau Rouge towards the Garonne River. The square will be on your left. Walking from the train station takes approximately 35 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Bordeaux tram provides easy access to Place de la Bourse. Take tram line C and get off at the 'Place de la Bourse' stop. Tram tickets cost €1.80 for a single journey. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the area, with the closest bus station located at Quinconces, a 4-minute walk away.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bordeaux. A short taxi ride from the Bordeaux city center to Place de la Bourse typically costs between €5 and €7 and takes only a few minutes. Taxi stands can be found near the train station and major hotels.

  • Parking

    If driving, several car parks are located near Place de la Bourse. The Jean Jaures Bourse car park is a short walk away. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €2-4 per hour. An underground car park is located under the square.

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Discover more about Place de la Bourse

Place de la Bourse, initially named Place Royale, is a magnificent square in Bordeaux, France, representing a pivotal moment in French urban planning. Designed between 1730 and 1755 by Jacques Gabriel and his son Ange-Jacques Gabriel, architects to King Louis XV, it was the first open square in France and a symbol of the city's opening to the Garonne River. Originally, the square was intended to showcase an equestrian statue of Louis XV. However, this statue was destroyed during the French Revolution and replaced by a Tree of Liberty. In 1869, the Fountain of the Three Graces, depicting the daughters of Zeus, was installed and remains a focal point today. The square has also been known as Place de la Liberté and Place Impériale, reflecting the changing political landscape of France. The buildings surrounding the Place de la Bourse exemplify neoclassical design, featuring symmetrical layouts, elegant facades, and intricate details. The Palais de la Bourse (now the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) stands to the north, while the Hôtel des Fermes (now the National Customs Museum) is located to the south. These buildings showcase ornate mascarons, sculpted faces representing mythological figures and exotic merchants, highlighting Bordeaux's history as a bustling port city. In 2006, the Miroir d'Eau was added, creating a stunning visual effect. This shallow reflecting pool mirrors the surrounding architecture, creating a magical ambiance and making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

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