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Porte Cailhau: A Medieval Gateway to Bordeaux's Past

Explore Bordeaux's majestic Porte Cailhau: a medieval gate offering history, stunning views, and a glimpse into the city's glorious past.

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The Porte Cailhau, a magnificent medieval gate in Bordeaux, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural grandeur. Built in the 15th century, it commemorates King Charles VIII's victory at the Battle of Fornovo and offers stunning views of the city and the Garonne River.

A brief summary to Porte Cailhau

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or autumn months for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate stonework, sculptures, and architectural details of the gate.
  • Climb to the top of the towers for panoramic views of Bordeaux and the Garonne River.
  • Check out the exhibition inside to learn about the gate's history and construction.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along the Garonne River and explore nearby attractions like Place de la Bourse and the Pont de Pierre.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place de la Bourse, walk east along Quai de la Douane towards the Garonne River. Continue onto Place du Palais, where you'll find the Porte Cailhau. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and offers scenic views of the riverfront. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take tram line A to the 'Place du Palais' stop. From there, the Porte Cailhau is a short walk away. A single journey ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of unlimited travel on the tram network. Tickets can be purchased at tram stops using the vending machines.

  • Taxi

    From Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean, a taxi ride to Porte Cailhau will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €15-€20. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about Porte Cailhau

The Porte Cailhau, also known as the Porte du Palais, is a captivating historical landmark in Bordeaux, France. Constructed between 1493 and 1496, this impressive gate served as both a defensive structure and a triumphal arch. It was built to commemorate King Charles VIII's victory at the Battle of Fornovo in Italy. The gate's architecture is a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, showcasing intricate stonework, sculptures, and ornate carvings. The main facade features detailed depictions of historical and mythological scenes, along with the coats of arms of French kings and the city of Bordeaux. The 35-meter-high structure stands proudly on Place du Palais, offering panoramic views of the city and the Garonne River. Visitors can explore the gate's interior, discover the tools and materials used during its construction, and learn about its history through exhibitions and audio-visual presentations. Climbing to the top of the towers rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Bordeaux's oldest bridge, the Pont de Pierre. The Porte Cailhau is not only a historical monument but also a cultural symbol of Bordeaux, inspiring artists and writers throughout the centuries.

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