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Place du Parlement: A Glimpse into Bordeaux's History

Discover Place du Parlement in Bordeaux: a historic square with stunning 18th-century architecture, lively terraces, and a central fountain.

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The Place du Parlement, a picturesque square in Bordeaux's historic Saint-Pierre district, stands as a testament to the city's rich past. Originally named Place du Marché Royal in 1760, it was later renamed Place de la Liberté during the French Revolution before acquiring its current name, which commemorates the Parliament of Bordeaux. Surrounded by elegant 18th-century buildings and featuring a beautiful fountain, the square offers a delightful blend of history and architectural charm.

A brief summary to Place du Parlement

Local tips

  • Take your time to admire the intricate architectural details of the buildings surrounding the square, such as the mascarons and wrought-iron balconies.
  • Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many restaurants and cafes on the square, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
  • Visit the square during different times of the day to experience its changing ambiance, from the sunny afternoons to the vibrant evenings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Place du Parlement is centrally located in the Saint-Pierre district, close to Place de la Bourse. From Place de la Bourse, walk southwest along Cours du Chapeau Rouge, then turn right onto Rue de la Rousselle. Continue onto Rue du Parlement Sainte-Catherine; the Place du Parlement will be on your left. This is a short walk of approximately 5 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Place du Parlement is accessible via Bordeaux's tram and bus network. Tram lines A, B, C, and D all have stops within a short walking distance of the square, including Sainte-Catherine and Grand Théâtre. Numerous bus lines also stop nearby, such as lines 1, 15, 20, 472 and 5. From any of these stops, follow signs or use a map to walk to the Place du Parlement. A single trip ticket costs €1.80.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Bordeaux. Simply request a ride to Place du Parlement. The cost will vary depending on the distance and time of day, but a short trip from a nearby location in the city center should cost approximately €8-€15.

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Discover more about Place du Parlement

Place du Parlement, nestled in the heart of Bordeaux, is a captivating square that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's storied past. Created in 1760 as Place du Marché Royal, it served as a vital link between the river, port, and the city's burgeoning businesses. During the French Revolution, it was renamed Place de la Liberté, reflecting the era's revolutionary spirit. Today, its name honors the Parliament of Bordeaux, a significant judicial and legislative institution that was abolished in 1790. The square's architecture showcases the elegance of the 18th century, a period when Bordeaux underwent significant transformation. The buildings surrounding the square boast harmonious facades crafted from Gironde stone, adorned with sculpted mascarons, wrought-iron balustrades, and graceful arches. These architectural details exemplify the baroque and rococo styles, contributing to the square's classical appeal. Notably, one building on the corner of Rue Pas-Saint-Georges deviates from this uniformity, adding a touch of uniqueness to the ensemble. At the center of the Place du Parlement stands a magnificent fountain, installed in 1865. Designed by Bordeaux architect Louis-Michel Garros, the fountain features statues of women and a base of large golden stone slabs. The square is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a vibrant atmosphere with its numerous restaurants and cafes. Visitors can relax on the terraces, admire the architectural details, and soak in the ambiance of this historic square.

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