Château du Hâ: A Historical Fortress in Bordeaux

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Explore Château du Hâ in Bordeaux: A 15th-century fortress turned Palace of Justice, echoing centuries of French history and power.

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Château du Hâ

Château du Hâ, also known as Fort du Hâ, is a historic fortress in Bordeaux, France, built by Charles VII in the 15th century after the Hundred Years' War. Today, it houses the Palace of Justice and the National School of Magistrates. While not always open to the public, its imposing towers offer a glimpse into Bordeaux's turbulent past.

A brief summary to Château du Hâ

10 Rue des Frères Bonie, Bordeaux, 33000, FR

Local tips

Check for guided tours, especially during European Heritage Days in mid-September, for a chance to see inside areas usually closed to the public.
Remember to bring your ID, as security is tight due to the active courthouse.
Photography is restricted inside; however, you're free to take photos of the exterior, which looks stunning in the early morning light.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Saint-André Cathedral, as they are located steps away from each other.

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Getting There

Public Transportation

To reach Château du Hâ via public transport, take Tram Line A and get off at Hôtel de Ville or Tram Line B to Gambetta. From either stop, it's a short walk to 10 Rue des Frères Bonie. A tram ticket costs approximately €1.70.
Walking

Château du Hâ is located in Bordeaux's historic center, a short walk from Place des Quinconces. Walk towards Cours de l'Intendance, then turn right onto Rue des Frères Bonie. The château will be on your left at number 10.
Car

If driving, follow the A630 ring road around Bordeaux and exit towards Bordeaux-Centre. Continue onto Avenue du Général de Gaulle, then turn onto Cours de l'Intendance. Finally, turn right onto Rue des Frères Bonie; the destination will be on your left. Parking is available at the nearby Parking République, Place de la République. Hourly rates start at €0.80 / 15 min, with a daily maximum of €24.

Discover more about Château du Hâ

Château du Hâ, or Fort du Hâ, stands as a significant historical monument in Bordeaux. Commissioned by King Charles VII after reclaiming Bordeaux from the English in 1453, its construction aimed to assert royal authority and safeguard against potential uprisings. The name 'Hâ' is derived from the street leading to the fortress.Construction began in 1456, with the city bearing the costs as a sign of loyalty. Initially, it served as a garrison for royal troops. In 1470, it became the residence of Charles de Valois, the Duke of Guyenne, marking a period of splendor until his death in 1472. Over the centuries, the fortress played various roles, including refuge for Protestants during religious conflicts and a prison.In 1835, the castle was largely dismantled to make way for the Palace of Justice, sparing only two of its original towers. These remaining towers, known as the Tower of the Minimes (or Tower of Gunpowder) and the Tower of the English (also called Tower of Peugue or Tower of Witches), are registered as historical monuments. Today, the site accommodates the Palace of Justice and the National School of Magistrates, blending historical remnants with modern institutions. Occasional tours are available, particularly during heritage days.