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Fontaine de la place Saint Projet: A Historic Oasis in Bordeaux

Discover the Fontaine de la place Saint Projet in Bordeaux: a historic square with an elegant fountain, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.

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The Fontaine de la place Saint Projet, nestled in the heart of Bordeaux, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. This charming square, named after a 7th-century Auvergnat bishop, was once the site of a church and cemetery. Today, it features an elegant fountain dating back to 1737, crafted by the Dutch sculptor Michiel van der Voort. The fountain, a classified historical monument, showcases the city's emblem – three intertwined crescents – along with sculptures representing the Peugue and Devèze rivers. Surrounded by pedestrian streets and shops, Place Saint Projet provides a refreshing atmosphere where visitors can relax, admire the architecture, and soak in the local culture. It's a perfect spot to pause during a shopping trip or simply enjoy the ambiance of historic Bordeaux.

A brief summary to Fontaine de la place Saint Projet

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the late afternoon for the best light for photography, capturing the fountain and square in a warm, golden glow.
  • Check local listings for any events or performances happening in the square, as it often hosts musicians and street artists.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along Rue Sainte-Catherine, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in France, for a complete Bordeaux experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Fontaine de la place Saint Projet is easily accessible by public transport. Take Tram Line A to the Sainte-Catherine stop. From there, walk north along Rue Sainte-Catherine for approximately 2 minutes. The square will be on your right. A single tram ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of travel, including connections.

  • Walking

    From Place de la Bourse, walk northeast on Rue de la Rousselle. Continue onto Rue Sainte-Catherine. The Fontaine de la place Saint Projet will be on your left in approximately 5 minutes. This is a straightforward, pedestrian-friendly route through the heart of Bordeaux.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Bordeaux-Saint-Jean train station to Fontaine de la place Saint Projet will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near Place Saint Projet is limited and can be expensive. The Indigo Camille Jullian car park is a nearby option, located approximately 550 meters from Place Pey Berland. Parking fees typically range from €2 to €4 per hour. Consider parking further out and taking public transport or walking to avoid traffic congestion in the city center.

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Discover more about Fontaine de la place Saint Projet

Fontaine de la place Saint Projet, a serene and historically rich square, provides a delightful respite in the heart of Bordeaux. Named after Saint Projet, a 7th-century bishop from Auvergne (also known as Saint Priest in Auvergne), this location has evolved from a religious site to a vibrant public space. Originally, the square was the site of a church and its adjoining cemetery. The church, Église Saint-Projet, played a significant role in the area's history. Over time, the church was integrated into the surrounding buildings, leaving subtle architectural traces that can still be observed today. Keen observers can spot remnants of the church's structure, including a bell tower incorporated into the neighboring facades. The cemetery, Croix de Saint-Projet, was eventually moved, but a 14th-century cross remains as a testament to the square's past. This cross stands as a silent witness to the countless stories and events that have unfolded in this corner of Bordeaux. The centerpiece of Place Saint Projet is the Fontaine Saint-Projet, an elegant fountain dating back to 1715, with the current fountain being completed in 1737. This beautiful structure is the work of Michiel van der Voort, a talented sculptor from the Southern Netherlands. The fountain is more than just a source of water; it's a work of art that reflects Bordeaux's identity and history. The fountain is embedded in the southern wall of the square and dispenses potable water through three timed taps. Above these taps, the fountain showcases distinct features of Bordeaux. The city's emblem, three intertwined crescents, is prominently displayed, framed by intricate carvings of flowers and fruits. These crescents symbolize the city's rich heritage and its connection to the moon, a recurring motif in Bordeaux's iconography. Furthermore, the fountain features sculptures representing the Peugue and Devèze rivers. These rivers hold special significance as the confluence of these waterways marked the very origin of Bordeaux. The sculptures depict a woman and a man, symbolizing these rivers and their vital role in the city's foundation. Maritime trophies, including a ship's prow, rudder, trident, harpoons, and a cornucopia, are also featured, highlighting Bordeaux's historical connection to maritime trade and prosperity. Place Saint Projet is strategically located at the intersection of two pedestrian streets: Rue Sainte-Catherine and Rue des Trois Conils. Rue Sainte-Catherine is one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in France, offering a vast array of retail experiences. Rue des Trois Conils, equally charming, is lined with boutiques and shops, creating a lively atmosphere. The square provides a welcome respite for shoppers and visitors alike. Benches are strategically placed around the square, inviting people to take a break, relax, and soak in the ambiance. The refreshing atmosphere, enhanced by the fountain, makes it an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Musicians and street artists often showcase their talents in Place Saint Projet, adding to the square's vibrant atmosphere. Their performances provide entertainment for passersby and contribute to the square's lively character. The sounds of music and the energy of artistic expression fill the air, creating a memorable experience for visitors. Place Saint Projet is more than just a square; it's a microcosm of Bordeaux's history, culture, and spirit. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, where art and commerce meet, and where locals and tourists come together to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, shopping, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Place Saint Projet offers something for everyone. Visiting Place Saint Projet is a quintessential Bordeaux experience. It's a place to slow down, appreciate the beauty around you, and connect with the city's rich heritage. Take a stroll through the square, admire the fountain, listen to the street musicians, and let the charm of Place Saint Projet captivate you. Today, Place Saint-Projet is a popular meeting point and a place to relax amidst the vibrant city life. The square is surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to take a break during a day of exploring Bordeaux. The square is open to the public at all times and is free to visit. An archaeological dig was conducted in Place Saint-Projet before the construction of a "freshness island," which will be created by planting five trees in three different pits. These pits are arranged in a north-south line along the Rue Sainte-Catherine, and they take up a space that is about 20 meters long and 4 meters wide, with a depth of 1.30 meters. The dig site is on the southern slope of the Devèze valley, about 8.80 meters NGF above sea level. The river is now underground, about 200 meters to the north. Historically, Place Saint-Projet was part of the city during the High Roman Empire and the Late Antiquity, which was protected by the 3rd-century wall. The square is located in the southwest corner of the intersection of a decumanus (now the Rue des Trois-Conils and Rue de la Merci) and an old cardo (probably maximus) that follows the Rue Sainte-Catherine. According to a study of texts and urban morphology, this area may have been the site of an early medieval palatial estate. The Église Saint-Projet was located to the south of the square, and its cemetery was also located to the south, not on the square itself. In 1594, a market hall was built. In 1715, the first fountain was built on the site of an old well. In 1737, a new fountain was built to the south of the square, which is still there today. In the 18th century, many archaeological discoveries were made in this area of the city, mainly of furniture (a marble funerary cippus with an inscription dedicated to Mercury, walls, a floor in probable opus signinum, tubuli, tiles, etc.). For the Middle Ages and the modern era, only historical sources attest to a market function. The Place Camille Jullian, not far from the Place Saint-Projet to the north, has been the subject of archaeological excavations that have revealed the presence of a vast Carolingian necropolis, as well as the foundations of the Saint-Pierre church and the remains of a Merovingian building. The Place Saint-Projet is a place of history and culture, where the past and present meet.

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