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Grosse Cloche: Bordeaux's Historic Belfry

Discover Bordeaux's iconic Grosse Cloche, a historic bell tower that has chimed through centuries of the city's joys and sorrows.

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The Grosse Cloche, or Big Bell, is one of the oldest belfries in France and a lasting symbol of Bordeaux. This iconic landmark, part of the city's former medieval defenses, stands as a reminder of Bordeaux's rich history and civic pride.

A brief summary to Grosse Cloche

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month at noon to hear the bell 'Armande-Louise' chime.
  • Check the official tourist office website for guided tour schedules, as they are limited.
  • Note the astronomical clock dating back to 1759, featuring a sundial in a half-moon shape.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Grosse Cloche is located in the heart of Bordeaux, making it easily accessible on foot. From Place de la Bourse, walk southwest along Cours d'Alsace-Lorraine, then turn right onto Rue Saint-James. The Grosse Cloche will be on your left. This walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Grosse Cloche is accessible via Bordeaux's tram system. Take tram line A, B, or C to the Musée d'Aquitaine or Sainte-Catherine stations. From either station, it's a short walk to the Grosse Cloche. A single tram ticket costs €1.80.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bordeaux. A taxi ride from the Bordeaux-Saint-Jean train station to the Grosse Cloche typically costs between €15 and €20, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about Grosse Cloche

The Grosse Cloche, also known as the Porte Saint-Éloi, is a prominent landmark in Bordeaux, France, that has marked the city's history since the 13th century. Originally a simple gate in the city's defensive walls, it evolved into a belfry for the city hall. The structure consists of two imposing octagonal towers connected by a central arch, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Above the arch is the city's coat of arms, featuring a red lion on a white background. The current bell, named Armande-Louise, was cast in 1775 and weighs a hefty 7,750 kilos. Its Latin inscription translates to “I ring the hours and my voice is a call to arms, I sing for happy events and weep for the dead”. The bell rings on the first Sunday of each month and on major holidays like Bastille Day and Remembrance Day. Historically, the Grosse Cloche served various purposes, from signaling the start and end of the grape harvest to warning citizens of fires, floods, and other dangers. It also functioned as a prison for misbehaving youths, with its thick doors and heavy bolts. Today, visitors can take guided tours to explore the tower's interior, including the former prison cells. The Grosse Cloche stands on Rue Saint-James, near Cours Victor Hugo, and is easily accessible. Its image has been featured on Bordeaux's coat of arms since the medieval era, cementing its status as a symbol of the city.

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