Background

Château du Hâ: A Bordeaux Fortress of History

Explore Château du Hâ in Bordeaux: a medieval fortress turned palace of justice, echoing centuries of French history and architectural evolution.

3.7

Château du Hâ, a historical landmark in Bordeaux, stands as a testament to medieval power and royal authority. Originally built in the 15th century by King Charles VII after the Hundred Years' War, it has served as a fortress, palace, and prison. Today, it houses the École Nationale de la Magistrature and the Palais de Justice. While interior access is limited, the exterior offers a glimpse into Bordeaux's complex past.

A brief summary to Château du Hâ

  • 10 Rue des Frères Bonie, Bordeaux, 33000, FR

Local tips

  • Admire the exterior architecture, especially the remaining towers, to appreciate the fortress's original design.
  • Check for guided tours or Heritage Days for a chance to see inside the Palais de Justice and learn about its judicial history.
  • Walk around the perimeter to view the ramparts and towers from different angles, offering varied perspectives of the historical site.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Château du Hâ is located at 10 Rue des Frères Bonie in central Bordeaux, easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Hôtel de Ville, walk southwest along Rue de la Course, then turn left onto Rue des Frères Bonie. The Château will be on your right. This is a free and direct way to reach the site.

  • Public Transport

    The Château du Hâ is accessible via Bordeaux's tram system. Take Tram A and disembark at the Hôtel de Ville station, or take Tram B to the Gambetta stop. From either stop, it's a short walk to the château. A single tram ticket costs around €1.80 [https://www.infotbm.com/en/ticket-prices].

Unlock the Best of Château du Hâ

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Château du Hâ

Located in the heart of Bordeaux, Château du Hâ is a historic site with a rich and varied past. Constructed in the 15th century by Charles VII, it was intended to assert royal authority after the English were driven out at the end of the Hundred Years' War. The name 'Hâ' comes from the street that led to the fortress. Originally, the Château du Hâ was a military stronghold, designed with imposing stone walls and two large round towers. Over the centuries, its role evolved, and in the 18th century, it was transformed into a palace of justice. The austere interiors were remodeled to accommodate courtrooms and administrative offices. Later, the château became a civil prison in 1731 and during the French Revolution, it served as a state prison. Opponents of the regime were imprisoned and many were later guillotined within its walls. In 1835, the palace was largely dismantled to allow for the construction of the Palais de Justice, leaving only two of the original six towers. Today, the remaining towers are the Tour des Minimes (also known as the Tour de la Poudre) and the Tour des Anglais (also known as the Tour du Peugue or Tour des Sorcières). Today, the Château du Hâ houses the École Nationale de la Magistrature (National School for Magistrates) and the Tribunal de Grande Instance. Public access is limited, but the exterior can be viewed, and the juxtaposition of medieval architecture with the modern city provides a striking image of Bordeaux's history. The site is sometimes open to the public during Heritage Days.

Popular Experiences near Château du Hâ

Popular Hotels near Château du Hâ

Select Currency