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Place des Quinconces: Bordeaux's Grand Esplanade

Discover Place des Quinconces in Bordeaux: a historic square with monuments, events, and stunning river views. A must-see destination!

Place des Quinconces, one of Europe's largest city squares, is a vibrant hub in Bordeaux, France. Laid out in the 19th century on the site of a former chateau, it features the iconic Monument aux Girondins, rostral columns, and statues of famous philosophers, hosting various events throughout the year.

A brief summary to Place des Quinconces

  • Bordeaux, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during the Bordeaux Wine Festival (usually in June) to enjoy open-air concerts and a lively atmosphere.
  • Take a stroll along the Garonne River for scenic views and photo opportunities.
  • Explore the square's monuments, including the Monument aux Girondins and the rostral columns.
  • Check out the local events calendar for fairs, circuses, and other cultural activities happening at the square.
  • Use public transport (tram or bus) to easily reach Place des Quinconces, as it's a major transport hub.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Grand Théâtre, walk northwest along Cours du Chapeau Rouge, then turn left onto Allée de Tourny. Continue straight; Place des Quinconces will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), take the Lianes 1+ bus to the 'Place des Quinconces' bus stop. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour on trams, buses, and boats.

  • Tram

    From Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean, take Tram Line C directly to the 'Quinconces' stop. The tram journey takes approximately 25 minutes. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour on trams, buses, and boats.

  • Taxi

    From Bordeaux city center, a taxi to Place des Quinconces typically costs between €5 and €7, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 2 minutes.

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Discover more about Place des Quinconces

Place des Quinconces, sprawling across 12 hectares (approximately 30 acres), stands as one of the largest city squares in Europe, located in the heart of Bordeaux, France. This grand esplanade was created in 1820 on the site of Château Trompette, a fortress whose cannons once threatened the city, but was later destroyed. The square was designed to prevent future rebellions. The name 'Quinconces' derives from the original arrangement of the trees planted in a quincunx pattern (an arrangement of five items with four at the corners of a square or rectangle and one at the center), though the trees are now planted in rows. The square slopes gently towards the Garonne River, offering picturesque views. Dominating the square is the Monument aux Girondins, erected between 1894 and 1902. This monument commemorates the Girondin deputies who were victims of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. The monument features a tall column topped by a statue of Liberty breaking her chains, symbolizing freedom and the republic. At the base of the column, allegorical sculptures depict the Triumph of the Republic and the Triumph of Concord. The detailed bronze fountains near the monument each have a different theme, with one celebrating family and another representing brotherhood. Facing the Garonne River, two rostral columns, adorned with ship prows, symbolize trade and navigation, reflecting Bordeaux's maritime history. Statues of the philosophers Montaigne and Montesquieu, both figures linked to the region, also grace the square. Place des Quinconces is a vibrant hub, hosting fairs, circuses, sporting events, and artistic events throughout the year. It also serves as a major public transportation hub, with tram lines and bus routes converging here.

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