Pey Berland Tower: A Gothic Guardian of Bordeaux

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Ascend Bordeaux's Pey Berland Tower for panoramic views and a journey through centuries of history, architecture, and cultural significance.

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Pey Berland Tower

The Pey Berland Tower, standing proudly next to the Bordeaux Cathedral, is a 15th-century Gothic bell tower offering panoramic city views. Named after Archbishop Pey Berland, it's a historical landmark that has served many purposes throughout the centuries, from a bell tower to a shot factory. Climbing its 231 steps rewards visitors with stunning vistas of Bordeaux.

A brief summary to Pey Berland Tower

Pl. Pey Berland, Bordeaux, 33000, FR
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Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, as access is limited and time-stamped e-tickets are required.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos.
Be prepared for a climb of 231 steps up a narrow spiral staircase; good health is recommended.
Take your time on the climb; there are two observation terraces at 40m and 50m to take a break and enjoy the views.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Hôtel de Ville tram stop (lines A and B), head west towards Place Pey Berland. The tower is directly in front of the Saint-André Cathedral. The walk is flat and takes approximately 2 minutes. No costs are associated with this option.
Public Transport

The Liane 1+ bus line, which comes from Mérignac Airport or the Gare St Jean train station, stops at Place Pey Berland (Palais de Justice station). From there, the tower is a very short walk. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour, allowing transfers between trams and buses.
Car

Navigate to Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux. There are several parking options nearby, including underground parking at 'Parking Pey Berland'. Parking costs approximately €0.50 per 15 minutes for up to 5 hours, and 10€ from 5 to 24 hours. The tower is a short walk from the parking area.

Discover more about Pey Berland Tower

Rising 66 meters above Bordeaux, the Pey Berland Tower is a captivating blend of history and architectural grandeur. Constructed in the 15th century (1440-1500) as the bell tower for the Saint-André Cathedral, it stands apart from the cathedral to protect the delicate structure from the vibrations of its bells. This separation is a testament to medieval architectural ingenuity, addressing the challenges posed by Bordeaux's marshy subsoil.The tower's Flamboyant Gothic design showcases intricate stonework, sculptures of saints, angels, and mysterious chimeras. Originally topped with a spire, it was destroyed by a storm in 1667 and later replaced by a statue of Notre-Dame d'Aquitaine in 1863. Over the centuries, the tower has served as a meeting place for citizens, a bell tower, and even a lead shot factory during the French Revolution.Today, the Pey Berland Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized both as part of the "Bordeaux, Port of the Moon" urban ensemble and as part of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Visitors can ascend the tower's 231 steps for panoramic views of Bordeaux, including the Church of St. Michel, the Place de la Bourse, and the Garonne River. The climb is a rewarding experience, offering a unique perspective on the city's rich history and architectural beauty.