Miroir d'eau, Bordeaux Travel Guide

The Miroir d'eau, inaugurated in 2006, stands as a modern icon in Bordeaux, France. Situated on the quays of the Garonne River, opposite the Place de la Bourse, this reflecting pool is the largest in the world, covering 3,450 square meters. Designed by landscape artist Michel Corajoud, fountain maker Jean-Max Llorca, and architect Pierre Gangnet, the Miroir d'eau has become a symbol of Bordeaux's urban regeneration and its connection to the Garonne.The pool consists of granite slabs covered by a mere 2 cm of water, creating a mirror-like surface that reflects the surrounding 18th-century architecture. An underground warehouse was cleverly repurposed to house the machinery and reservoir for the pool's operation. The Miroir d'eau operates in cycles, alternating between a still mirror, a shallow pool, and a mist effect that occurs every 15 minutes, adding to the site's allure.Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Miroir d'eau has become a social hub, attracting locals and tourists alike. It's a place to stroll, cool off, play, and marvel at the reflections and perspectives. The site is particularly enchanting at different times of the day, with early mornings and late evenings offering the most stunning reflections. The Miroir d'eau is not only a visual spectacle but also a symbol of Bordeaux's identity, modernity, and ability to reinvent itself.