Grosse Cloche: Bordeaux's Medieval Bell Tower

The Grosse Cloche, also known as the Porte Saint-Éloi or Porte Saint-James, is a remnant of Bordeaux's medieval past. It began as a simple passage in the city's first protective wall in the 13th century. Over time, it transformed into a grand gate and bell tower, serving as the belfry for the old city hall. The structure consists of two imposing octagonal towers connected by a central arch. Above the arch is the city's coat of arms. The current bell, named Armande-Louise, was cast in 1775 and weighs approximately 7,750 kilograms. It chimes six times a year for major celebrations and on the first Sunday of each month. The bell's Latin inscription translates to: "I ring the hours and my voice is a call to arms; I sing for happy events and weep for the dead". For a time, the Grosse Cloche also served as a prison. Young people who misbehaved were confined within its walls. It was joked that they were staying at the "Hotel du Lion d'Or," a reference to the weather vane on the central dome depicting a lion, a symbol of the English kings. Today, visitors can take a guided tour to see the old prison cells and learn about the tower's history. The Grosse Cloche stands as a symbol of Bordeaux's privileges and liberties, a testament to its rich and often rebellious history.