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Porte de Bourgogne: Bordeaux's Neoclassical Gateway

Discover the grandeur of Bordeaux at the Porte de Bourgogne, a neoclassical gateway marking the city's historic entrance and rich cultural heritage.

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The Porte de Bourgogne, also known as the Porte des Salinières, is a historic city gate in Bordeaux, France. Built in the mid-18th century (completed in 1755) during the reign of Louis XV, it marks the entrance to the city from the old road to Paris. Inspired by Roman triumphal arches and designed in the neoclassical style, the gate is a testament to Bordeaux's rich history and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Porte de Bourgogne

Local tips

  • Visit both during the day and at night to appreciate the architectural details and the magical atmosphere created by the lighting.
  • Explore the surrounding Saint-Pierre district, known for its charming streets, historic buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Walk along the Garonne River near the gate for picturesque views of the waterfront and cityscape.
  • Visit nearby attractions such as the Place de la Bourse and the Saint-Michel Basilica.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Saint-Michel Basilica, head northwest towards the Garonne River. Walk along the Quai de la Monnaie, following the riverfront. The Porte de Bourgogne will appear ahead, marking the entrance to the historic city center. The walk is approximately 1.2 kilometers and should take about 15-20 minutes. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean (the main train station), take tram line C towards 'Place de la Bourse'. Get off at the 'Place de la Bourse' stop, which is a short walk from the Porte de Bourgogne. Alternatively, from 'Palais de Justice', take bus line 16 to 'Porte de Bourgogne'. A single tram or bus ticket costs around €1.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the city center (e.g., Place de la Bourse), a taxi or ride-share to Porte de Bourgogne is a short ride. The cost is estimated to be between €5-€7, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. Note that traffic in the city center can be heavy.

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Discover more about Porte de Bourgogne

The Porte de Bourgogne is a striking example of neoclassical architecture in Bordeaux, France. Constructed between 1750 and 1755, the gate was designed by architect André Portier under the supervision of Ange-Jacques Gabriel. It was commissioned as part of a broader urban development plan to modernize Bordeaux and enhance its aesthetic appeal. Inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Porte de Bourgogne features clean lines, symmetrical proportions, and classical elements such as Corinthian columns and a pediment. The gate was strategically positioned to serve as a grand entrance to the city from the east, specifically from the road leading to Paris. For a time, it was even called Porte Napoléon in honor of the Emperor's visit in 1808. Over the centuries, the Porte de Bourgogne has witnessed key moments in Bordeaux's history. During the French Revolution, it was the scene of clashes between royalists and revolutionaries. Today, the Porte de Bourgogne stands as a symbol of Bordeaux's historical and cultural identity and marks the entrance to the city's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.

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