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Pey Berland Tower: A Gothic Landmark in Bordeaux

Climb the historic Pey Berland Tower in Bordeaux for stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

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The Pey Berland Tower, a historical landmark in Bordeaux, France, stands as the bell tower of the Saint-André Cathedral. Built in the Gothic style between 1440 and 1500, it offers panoramic views of the city from its summit, showcasing a blend of architectural beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Pey Berland Tower

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the 233-step climb to the top of the tower.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Be prepared for a strenuous climb, as the staircase is narrow and steep.
  • Take your time to admire the panoramic views of Bordeaux from the tower's terrace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Place de la Comédie, walk southeast along Cours du Chapeau-Rouge. Continue onto Cours d'Alsace-et-Lorraine, then turn right onto Rue Sainte-Catherine. Turn left onto Place de la Cathédrale, where you'll find the Pey Berland Tower. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean, take bus line 16 and get off at the Palais de Justice stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Pey Berland Tower. A single bus fare is approximately €2. Alternatively, take Tram C from Gare Saint-Jean to Place de la Bourse, then switch to Tram A towards Mériadeck and get off at Hôtel de Ville. The tower is a short walk from the tram stop.

  • Taxi

    From Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean, a taxi ride to the Pey Berland Tower takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €7 and €10. Taxis are readily available outside the train station.

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Discover more about Pey Berland Tower

The Pey Berland Tower, an iconic structure in Bordeaux, serves as the freestanding bell tower for the Saint-André Cathedral. Constructed between 1440 and 1500, the tower owes its existence to Archbishop Pey Berland, who sought to provide a dedicated space for the cathedral's bells. The decision to build a separate tower was influenced by the marshy ground beneath the cathedral, which couldn't support the weight and vibrations of a traditional bell tower. The tower's architecture exemplifies the Flamboyant Gothic style, featuring intricate stone carvings, pointed arches, and delicate tracery. Rising to a height of 66 meters (216 feet), it was one of the tallest structures in Bordeaux upon completion. The tower's design incorporates buttresses and pinnacles, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and structural stability. A gilded statue of Our Lady of Aquitaine has graced the tower's summit since 1863, replacing an earlier spire that was destroyed by a storm. Throughout its history, the Pey Berland Tower has served various purposes. During the French Revolution, it was repurposed as a pellet factory. In 1851, it was restored to its original function as a bell tower, housing four bells, the largest of which weighs eight tonnes. Today, visitors can climb the tower's 233 steps to enjoy panoramic views of Bordeaux. The climb is strenuous, but the reward is a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the city and its surroundings. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and architectural significance.

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