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La Vieille Bourse: Lille's Architectural Gem

Discover Lille's architectural masterpiece: La Vieille Bourse, a historic stock exchange turned vibrant cultural hub in the heart of the city.

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La Vieille Bourse, or the Old Stock Exchange, stands as a prominent landmark in the heart of Lille. Constructed in the mid-17th century in the Flemish Renaissance style, its quadrangle structure comprises 24 identical houses surrounding a vibrant inner courtyard, now a hub for book vendors, flower markets, and chess players.

A brief summary to La Vieille Bourse

Local tips

  • Visit in the afternoon, Tuesday through Sunday, to experience the lively book and flower market in the inner courtyard.
  • Take a stroll around the building to admire the intricate facades and architectural details.
  • Check for special events like tango demonstrations, especially during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    La Vieille Bourse is located in the heart of Lille, between the Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle) and Place du Théâtre. From Grand Place, simply walk towards the Vieille Bourse, it's hard to miss. The building has four entrances, one on each side of the rectangular structure. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to La Vieille Bourse is Rihour (Line 1), which is a two-minute walk away. Gare Lille Flandres (Lines 1 and 2) is approximately a five-minute walk. From either station, follow the signs towards Grand Place, and La Vieille Bourse will be nearby. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for 1 hour on the entire network.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Lille. Simply request a ride to La Vieille Bourse (Place du Général de Gaulle). A short trip from either of the train stations (Lille Europe or Lille Flandres) should cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic and the specific service used.

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Discover more about La Vieille Bourse

La Vieille Bourse, undeniably one of Lille's most beautiful monuments, stands proudly between the Grand Place and Place du Théâtre. This architectural masterpiece, constructed between 1652 and 1653 by the architect Julien Destrée, is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural vibrancy. Originally designed as the city's stock exchange, La Vieille Bourse was intended to be a grand setting for merchants to conduct business, reflecting the wealth and ambition of the time. The building's intricate design showcases the Flemish Renaissance style, featuring interconnected courtyards and arcades that once buzzed with negotiations and the clinking of coins. The facades are adorned with a wealth of detail, including caryatids, pilasters, garlands, and luscious fruits, all contributing to its opulent character. Lions of Flanders sculpted on the portals serve as a reminder of Lille's historical ties to the Netherlands. Today, the inner courtyard of La Vieille Bourse has evolved into a vibrant marketplace. Open in the afternoons from Tuesday to Sunday, it hosts book markets, flower stalls, chess games, and serves as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. While it is not possible to visit the inside of the houses, visitors can explore the building's courtyard. In the summer, the courtyard sometimes hosts tango demonstrations. La Vieille Bourse is more than just a historical monument; it's a living, breathing space where the past and present intertwine.

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