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Monument aux Girondins: A Bordeaux Icon

A majestic monument in Bordeaux's Place des Quinconces, honoring the Girondins and embodying liberty with its towering column and bronze fountains.

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The Monument aux Girondins, a towering column and fountain, stands as a powerful symbol of Bordeaux, France, commemorating the Girondist deputies who were victims of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. Located on the Place des Quinconces, one of Europe's largest city squares, it's a must-see for its historical significance and artistic grandeur.

A brief summary to Monument aux Girondins

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the Bordeaux Wine Museum, the Grand Théâtre, and the Garonne River waterfront.
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the fountains and admire the intricate sculptures.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Monument aux Girondins is easily accessible via Bordeaux's tram system. Take either Tram B or Tram C and disembark at the 'Quinconces' stop, which is directly on Place des Quinconces. Numerous bus lines also serve the Place des Quinconces, including lines 1, 2, 5, 15 and Bus C. A single tram or bus ticket costs approximately €2.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the city center, such as near the Grand Théâtre or Place de la Bourse, the Monument aux Girondins is within easy walking distance. From the Grand Théâtre, walk north along Allées de Tourny towards the river. The monument will be visible on your left within approximately 10-15 minutes. The walk is flat and straightforward.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from the Bordeaux-Saint-Jean train station to the Monument aux Girondins will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify 'Place des Quinconces' as your destination.

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Discover more about Monument aux Girondins

The Monument aux Girondins, rising from the Esplanade des Quinconces, is a striking tribute to the Girondins, a political group who played a significant role in the early years of the French Revolution. Erected between 1894 and 1902, this grand memorial honors the Girondin deputies who fell victim to the Reign of Terror. The monument stands as a testament to the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. The monument's central column soars 54 meters high, crowned by a bronze statue of Liberty breaking its chains, a powerful symbol of the Girondins' ideals. The column is adorned with intricate carvings and statues, each telling a part of the story of the French Revolution. At the base of the column are two expansive fountain basins featuring bronze sculptures of horses and allegorical figures. On the side of the Quinconces closest to the city center, statues of the Bordeaux philosophers Michel de Montaigne and Charles de Secondat, baron de Montesquieu, celebrate Bordeaux's intellectual heritage. The Place des Quinconces, where the monument is located, is one of Europe's largest city squares. Laid out in 1820, the square has become an essential public transport hub, hosting fairs, circuses, sporting events, and artistic events throughout the year. The monument has faced challenges throughout its history; during World War II, parts of the monument were dismantled and hidden to protect them. The monument was classified as a historical monument on March 16, 2011. Today, the Monument aux Girondins remains a vibrant focal point for city life in Bordeaux, attracting locals and tourists alike.

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