Grosse Cloche: Bordeaux's Historic Bell Tower

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

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Grosse Cloche

The Grosse Cloche, or Great Bell, is one of Bordeaux's most iconic landmarks, a remnant of the city's medieval defenses. This impressive structure, featuring two octagonal towers, has witnessed centuries of Bordeaux's history and continues to chime on special occasions.

A brief summary to Grosse Cloche

Rue Saint-James, Bordeaux, 33000, FR
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Monday 3:15 pm-3:45 pm
Saturday 10:30 am-11 am

Local tips

Visit on the first Sunday of the month at noon to hear the Grosse Cloche ring.
Check the tourist office website for guided tour schedules and reservations.
Be prepared to climb a narrow staircase if you take the tour.

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Getting There

Walking

The Grosse Cloche is located in the heart of Bordeaux, at 45 Rue Saint-James. From Place de la Bourse, walk southwest along Cours d'Alsace-et-Lorraine. Turn right onto Rue de Guienne, then left onto Rue Saint-James. The Grosse Cloche will be on your left. This walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

The Grosse Cloche is easily accessible by tram. Take tram line B to the Musée d'Aquitaine station, which is a 5-minute walk from the Grosse Cloche. From the tram station, walk north on Cours Victor Hugo, then turn right onto Rue Saint-James. The Grosse Cloche will be on your right. A single tram fare is around €1.70.

Discover more about Grosse Cloche

The Grosse Cloche, also known as the Porte Saint-Éloi, stands as a proud symbol of Bordeaux's rich history. Originally part of the city's defensive walls in the 13th century, it served as a gate and belfry for the old city hall. Over the centuries, the Grosse Cloche has undergone several transformations, blending Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.The current bell, named Armande-Louise, was cast in 1775 and weighs a massive 7,750 kilos. Its Latin inscription reflects its purpose: "I ring the hours and my voice is a call to arms, (…) I sing for happy events and weep for the dead". Historically, the bell signaled the start and end of the grape harvest, warned of fires, and announced important events. Today, it rings on the first Sunday of each month and for major holidays.The towers of the Grosse Cloche once served as a prison for misbehaving youths. Today, visitors can explore the tower's interior on a guided tour and learn about its fascinating past. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of Bordeaux. The Grosse Cloche is a reminder of Bordeaux's resilience and enduring spirit.