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Base sous-marine: Bordeaux's WWII Relic Turned Arts Hub

Explore Bordeaux's WWII submarine base, now a unique space for contemporary art and immersive digital exhibitions.

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The Base sous-marine in Bordeaux is a former German submarine base transformed into a contemporary art space. Built during World War II, this massive concrete structure now hosts temporary exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events, offering a unique blend of history and modern art.

A brief summary to Base sous-marine

Local tips

  • Check the exhibition schedule in advance, as the Base sous-marine is only open during temporary exhibitions and events.
  • Book tickets online to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Take public transport, as parking can be limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bordeaux city center (Quinconces stop), take Tram C towards Ravezies. Get off at the Ravezies stop and then take Bus 9 towards Brandenburg. Get off at the Base sous-marine stop. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. A single bus or tram ticket costs €2.

  • Walking

    From La Cité du Vin, walk along the riverfront towards the Base sous-marine. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers scenic views of the Garonne River. Follow the signs directing you to the base.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bordeaux. A taxi from the Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean to the Base sous-marine will cost approximately €16-€20 and take 8 minutes. A taxi from Bordeaux city center will cost approximately €9-€12 and take 4 minutes.

  • Parking

    There is free parking available at the Base sous-marine, but spaces are limited and fill up quickly. You can also book a parking space online in advance. There is also a free municipal car park in front of the submarine base. These spaces are quickly occupied as they are also used by other sites in the area.

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Discover more about Base sous-marine

The Base sous-marine, located in the Bassins à Flot district of Bordeaux, is a unique cultural venue with a rich history. Constructed between 1941 and 1943 by the German navy, it served as a submarine base during World War II. The imposing concrete structure, designed to withstand aerial bombardment, is one of five such bases built along the Atlantic coast. After the war, the base was repurposed as a cultural center, hosting contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, and other events. The vast, cavernous spaces create a dramatic backdrop for the artwork on display. Today, the Base sous-marine is home to the Bassins de Lumières, the world's largest digital art center, offering immersive multimedia exhibitions. The base itself is a sight to behold, with its massive concrete walls and imposing architecture. Visitors can explore the former submarine pens and imagine what life was like during the war. The Base sous-marine is a testament to Bordeaux's past and its commitment to contemporary culture.

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