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Place de la Bourse: Bordeaux's Elegant Heart

Discover Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux's iconic square: a blend of neoclassical architecture, captivating reflections, and rich history.

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The Place de la Bourse, a magnificent square in the heart of Bordeaux, France, stands as a symbol of the city's elegance and history. Inaugurated in 1749, this iconic landmark features stunning Neoclassical architecture and the captivating Miroir d'Eau (water mirror), making it a must-see for any visitor.

A brief summary to Place de la Bourse

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • Take your time to capture the beauty of the architecture and the reflections in the Miroir d'Eau.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the Musée National des Douanes and the Garonne River.
  • Walk around the square to discover the mascarons (stone faces) adorning the buildings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Place de la Bourse is located in the heart of Bordeaux, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Grand Théâtre, walk along Cours du Chapeau Rouge towards the Garonne River. The square will be on your right. Walking from the train station is approximately 35 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Place de la Bourse is well-served by Bordeaux's tram and bus network. Take tram line C to the Place de la Bourse stop. Several bus lines also stop near the square, including lines 1, 2, 15, 16 and 472. A single journey ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour. Consider purchasing a 24-hour pass for €5.00 or a 7-day pass for €14.20 for unlimited travel.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bordeaux. A short taxi ride from the Bordeaux city center to Place de la Bourse typically costs between €5 and €7 and takes only a few minutes. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber.

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Discover more about Place de la Bourse

Place de la Bourse, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been at the heart of Bordeaux for centuries. The square was designed between 1735 and 1738 by Jacques Gabriel, and built by his son Ange-Jacques Gabriel, principal architect to King Louis XV, and was built between 1730 and 1775. The Place de la Bourse marked a pivotal moment in Bordeaux's history, symbolizing the city's opening to the Garonne River and its embrace of modernity, as it was previously confined by medieval walls. Originally named Place Royale, the square was intended to showcase an equestrian statue of King Louis XV. This statue was destroyed during the French Revolution and replaced by a Tree of Liberty. In 1869, the Fountain of the Three Graces, depicting the daughters of Zeus, was erected in its place and remains today. The buildings surrounding the square exemplify 18th-century neoclassical French architecture. The Palais de la Bourse, formerly the stock exchange, now houses the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Hôtel des Fermes, once home to customs offices, now houses the National Customs Museum. The Miroir d'Eau, added in 2006, is the largest reflecting pool in the world, creating a mesmerizing optical illusion. The pool reflects the surrounding buildings, offering a stunning visual effect, especially on sunny days. The square is a popular venue for cultural events, including concerts and festivals.

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